Then Jacob asked, saying, “Tell me Your name, I pray.” And He said, “Why is it that you ask about My name?” And He blessed him there. Genesis 32: 29, 30, NKJV.
Gracious God here we are in Your presence once again to feast from Your Word. We listen with joy for a word from You to take us into the New Year. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
My dear, faithful, web family, and friends, just like I promised; here I am to have a final word with you in the year 2008! As you may recall, from December 2, until yesterday, we were re-publishing some of the devotionals from 2007 and 2008. Today, we look to God for a new message, to move us into the New Year!
Some of you may recognize in this verse, a scene from Jacob’s encounter with the “the Angel of the LORD” when he wrestled with Him until the break of day. On that eventful night not only Jacob’s name was changed, but his entire life! Then Jacob wanted to know the name of the Person with whom he was wrestling: “Please tell me Your name?” His question was answered with another question: “Why do you want to know my name?”
When human beings ask questions, they are seeking information. When God asks us questions, He is seeking to reveal something to us. According to the record, Jacob did not pursue his inquiry. I wonder what he would have discovered had he insisted on an answer. I believe that in the same way His name was changed because “he did not let go” of the Lord until he received his “blessing;” that he would also have received additional blessings by not giving up until he received an answer to his question!
Be that as it is, what message can we learn from this incident? When was the last time you asked God to tell you His name? You see my friends, there is something about telling somebody your name, and asking for theirs. Many times during an introduction, bonding takes place, and intimacy is developed. People discover things about each other by just learning each other’s name!
Because God’s name reveals who He is, God may have to “show” you His name instead of telling you. We will begin the New Year with this message!
My heartfelt thanks to all of you for your faithfulness in visiting our website during 2007-2008. I love you, and my prayers are with you! Please keep our website in your prayers. See you in the New Year!
Blessings!