Jacob is afraid - as he journeys home he knows he cannot avoid an encounter with his estranged brother Esau. Jacob is desperate - he has divided his people and his belongings into two camps to try and salvage something if Esau attacks and he has sent messages and gifts to try and placate his brother. He has even prayed to the LORD for help.
Now finally Jacob is alone - having sent his family across the ford of Jabbok. Suddenly out of the darkness he is finds himself in a struggle against an unknown assailant. Jacob had thought that his greatest struggle would be his encounter with Esau but during the course of the night he discovers that his greatest struggle is actually against someone infinitely greater.
Main Points
- Jacob encounters the LORD
- Jacob receives grace
- Jacob encounters and receives what we all need