Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Wrestle with God, Walking in Grace

Bible Reading:   Genesis 32:22-32

Key Verse: Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” (Genesis 32:28)


DEVOTION
 

In our daily lives, we face challenges across various levels. Every challenge that we experience serves the purpose of helping us grow stronger in our relationship with Christ. In the passage, Jacob was all alone and vulnerable when he was encountered for the wrestle. Yet despite this, he persevered. In our daily lives, when we are faced with struggles, the easy and more convenient option is to give up. We are afraid of taking that extra challenge in the fear of what will happen next. However, at the end of our pain and struggles, a bigger gift is waiting for us: God’s Blessing. God protected and provided for Jacob in the midst of his struggle, and by taking that extra step of faith, Jacob was able to receive God’s guidance and strength. In the same way, when we choose to trust in God and renew ourselves, we are able to better experience his blessings and mercy. 

As we reflect upon our lives during these days after Easter, we should remember the struggles that Christ experienced for us. He sent his one and only son into this world to save us from our sins. The struggles that Christ endured are ten times more painful and difficult than we can ever imagine. Through his great sacrifice, we received the ultimate blessing of forgiveness. Every challenge that we face is a chance to affirm our faith as Christians.  Every experience in our lives is a symbol of God’s love and power. It is a reminder that God is always with us and will never forsake us.

PRAYER

Dear Lord Jesus Christ, Our Heavenly Father, We thank you for all the blessings you have provided us. Father God, in times of our struggles when we thought we could not move forward, you blessed us with your great love and strength helping us persevere through. We pray that you help us to grow stronger as Christians, allowing our lives to be a testimony to your great love for us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.


Thought for the day

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. “– Philippians 4: 6
                                                        
 Rebecca Prasad
St. Andrews MTC, Yonkers, NY

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