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." (Ps. 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." (Gen. 28:22). 3) Repentance. 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." (Prov.16:7). 4) He did what was necessary to change his life. "So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak." (Gen. 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.   Read the Bible in One Year: Psalm 113-115; 1 Corinthians 6. @Dr Pat Francis @chayil$