The God of Jacob ( August 23)

The God of Jacob

"Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob. Look upon our shield, O God; look with favor on your anointed one." Psalm 84:8-9   We mentioned yesterday that the name Jacob meant, "trickster and con-artist".  Jacob's name, however, was changed to Israel (Prince of God) describing a nation, a people group, and a religion.  It is never too late for change and a new beginning with God. We can learn from Jacob how to obtain mercy and favor from God:   1) Prayer and confession. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9. 2) Tithe and offerings. Jacob made a covenant with God to give back to God a tithe of everything he was blessed with.  Jacob vowed to God: "And this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God's house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth." Genesis 28:22.  3) He repented for his wrongs. After a night of prayer he went back and faced his brother Esau with gifts of repentance and his brother forgave him. "When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him." Proverb 16:7.  4) He did what was necessary to fulfill his destiny. "So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak." Genesis 32:24.  Jacob wrestled all night in prayer; God heard and granted him his request.    The name Jacob stands forever as a reminder that God is more powerful than our mistakes and failures. The God of Jacob looks down with favor upon you today.   Kingdom Declaration: I am forgiven, blessed, and favored by Jesus Christ, my LORD and Savior. @Dr Pat Francis @Chayil$