Beyond the Weekend: Finding Hope in Family Conflict
In Finding Hope in Family Conflict, Pastor Jeff Manion and other teachers examines the life of Jacob. This series helps us see we make many of the same mistakes as Jacob. Like God does with Jacob, he is patient with us and continues to draw us closer to him. When we learn to rely completely upon God, we are more able to successfully navigate the conflicts in our own life.
The Pursuing God
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” Genesis 32:38
Read: Genesis 32:22-33
Listen: Genesis 32
TODAY'S MESSAGE
Jacob finds himself alone. He is in the middle of a move with an uncertain future and at this moment—he is alone. Then out of the darkness someone comes and wrestles with him. He is wrestling with God himself.
As the sun comes up, Jacob holds on and asks for a blessing. The man asks Jacob his name. In the middle of this wrestling match, Jacob has to admit who he is. He is a conniver and a deceiver. He admits that, and the man gives him a new name and blessing. Jacob leaves with a new identity.
When we recognize who we are and that we need God, God gives us a new identity. An identity that says we are dearly loved children. That we can move from selfish to giving and from bitter to gracious. Our past no longer defines us—but our relationship with God does.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Consider your identity in Jesus. Open your journal and write “My Identity in Jesus.” List as many of the things you can think of that go with your new identity. Write about how they can help you trust God through family conflict and difficult situations.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
