A New Identity

Bible Reading: Genesis 32: 22-31

Many times when we read the Bible, we can easily fail to realize that the people we read about were humans just like us. Even though they lived during times, they dealt with similar struggles we face today. No wonder the Preacher concluded that there’s nothing new under the sun. The main anchor of a man when everything around him seems to be falling apart is the power of his fellowship with God. 1 John 5:4 assures us that faith is the victory that makes us triumph over the world. From our Bible reading today, both Laban and his sister Rebecca were guilty of being fraudulent and crafty but we never saw in the Bible where either of them cried to God for his divine intervention in their lives. Instead, both siblings passed on this evil trait unto their children, as seen from Rachel stealing her father, Laban’s idol. Laban’s sons grumbled against their cousin, Jacob. Jacob also deceived his brother Esau and got the blessings meant for him.

Thank God for divine intervention and for God’s mercy upon Jacob, he would have ended like Laban. Perhaps his story would have just ended as Jacob the supplanter! However, Jacob had an encounter with the King of kings on his way to Canaan after fleeing Laban. God met with Jacob and a remarkable event took place, right there at the brook. Jacob had a exchange with God that led to a change of his name and destiny. A singular encounter brought a U-turn in the direction of Jacob’s life. He was redeemed, he was transformed, ”And he blessed him there” Genesis 38:29. The supplanter became God’s habitation, God’s chosen one. The divine encounter was marked by both a physical representation in that Jacob halted on his thighs, and even natural occurrence as the sun rose upon Jacob (vs 31). Dear friends, you need an encounter from God that will change your life today. I encourage you to call on the name of the Lord and be saved (Romans 10:13).

Daily Confession: I am redeemed, transformed and set free by the blood of Jesus. I am no longer who I used to be because God has given me a new identity in Christ Jesus.

Intercessory Prayer: Pray for the lost and backslidden that God will give them a new identity in Christ Jesus.

Hymn: There is power, power, wonder-working power

In the blood of the Lamb;

There is power, power, wonder-working power

In the precious blood of the Lamb.