Jacob, preparing to meet his estranged brother Esau, is left alone at night. During this time, he wrestles with a mysterious figure, often interpreted as an angel or God Himself. This struggle lasts until daybreak, symbolizing Jacob’s perseverance and determination. The figure eventually blesses Jacob and renames him “Israel,” meaning “he struggles with God.” This marks a significant shift in Jacob’s identity, from one who deceives to one who prevails through faith and struggle. Dropping our self-attributes often refers to letting go of ego, self-centeredness, or attachments to personal identity. It’s a concept found in spiritual and philosophical traditions, emphasizing the idea of transcending one’s individual self to connect with a higher purpose, others, or the universe. This can involve releasing pride, selfish desires, or the need for validation, and embracing humility, compassion, and interconnectedness. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or acts of service can help cultivate this mindset. It’s about shifting focus from “me” to “we,” fostering a sense of unity and peace.

 It reads in Genesis 32: 22-32 Easy: During the night Jacob took with him his two wives, his two female servants and his eleven sons. They went across the Jabbok river where there was a place to cross. After Jacob had sent his family across, he also sent all his things across the stream. Then Jacob was alone. A man came and fought with him for a long time. They continued until dawn. The man saw that he was not winning the fight against Jacob. So he hit Jacob’s hip while they were fighting. In that way, Jacob’s hip moved out of its proper place. Then the man said to Jacob, ‘Now let me go because dawn has come.’ But Jacob said, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.’ The man asked Jacob, ‘What is your name?’ Jacob replied, ‘My name is Jacob.’ Then the man said, ‘Your name will not be Jacob any longer. Your name will now be Israel. That is because you have fought with God and you have fought with men. And you have won!’ Then Jacob said, ‘Please tell me your name.’ But the man said, ‘Why do you want to know my name?’ Then he blessed Jacob in that place. So Jacob called the place Peniel. He said, ‘I have seen God face to face, and I am still alive!’ The sun rose in the sky as Jacob passed through Peniel. He could not walk properly because of his hip. Even today, the Israelite people do not eat the meat of an animal where it joins to the hip. This is because God touched Jacob’s hip. Recounts Jacob’s transformative encounter with God, where he wrestles through the night and emerges with a new name, Israel.

Father God, as Jacob wrestled with You at the ford of Jabbok, I too bring my struggles before You. In moments of uncertainty and fear, help me to persevere and seek Your presence. Transform my heart and mind, refining me through the challenges I face. May I emerge from my trials with a deeper understanding of Your will and a renewed sense of purpose. Father God I know that we all struggle with sin until we repent. It takes going and wrestling to come to commonsense of obedience in You to really live in Your freedom of being Jesus to others and dropping our self attributes.  Bless me, and others who seek Your will Father God, as You blessed Jacob, and guide me and others to walk in faith and humility. I love You, thank You, praise You and give You all the honor and glory in Jesus Precious Name Amen.