Studies on Prayer: Vol. 3Sample

Wrestling with God

Jacob had struggled his entire life to earn blessings. He was born holding the heel of his twin brother, Esau. Jacob’s mother encouraged him to fight for his father’s blessing, even if it meant he would have to use deception to get it. Then Jacob was forced to leave home in order to keep what was never rightfully his in the first place.

Jacob worked for his uncle Laban for seven years so that he could marry his daughter, Rachel. The morning after the wedding, Jacob woke up with Leah, Rachel’s sister, and learned he would need to work another seven years.

Jacob was on his way home to Canaan, for his inheritance, but not his birthright. As he neared the land, he learned Esau was coming to meet him. Jacob had prayed for a blessed life, but he would learn that God’s blessings were not paychecks to be earned; instead, they were gifts to be received.

1. How should a person “find favor” with God and man? (Proverbs 3:1–6)

2. Do you think Jacob’s prayer is a good model for a person in crisis? Why or why not?

3. What lasting reminder did Jacob have of his time with God? (Genesis 32:31–32)

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Hebrews 11:6 ESV