God's Glory Church

“You fought with God and with people, and you succeeded.” — Genesis 32:28

A carved wooden statue – a household deity – was stolen from a woman named Ekuva. She reported it to the police. They conducted searches, found some idol and called the applicant for identification. “Your god?” – asked the policeman. “No,” she replied sadly, “my god is much bigger and more beautiful than this.”

Humans have long sought to shape their own ideas of deity, hoping that a man-made god would be able to protect them. Probably, that is why Jacob’s wife, Rachel, “stole the household gods that the father had” (Genesis 31:19). But God did not withdraw his hand from Jacob, despite the fact that in his condition there were hidden puppets (v. 34).

After some time, an extraordinary event happened to Jacob. The “Husband” came to him and wrestled with him all night (Genesis 32:25). Before sunrise, Jacob said: “I will not let you go unless you bless me” (v. 27). Then the stranger gave him the name “Israel” (God-fighter), and then blessed him (vv. 28-29). Jacob called the place where all this happened Penuel (God’s face). “For,” he said, “I saw God face to face, and my soul was saved” (v. 30).

The one true God is infinitely greater and incomparably more beautiful than anything poor Ekuva could imagine. It cannot be carved from wood, stolen or hidden. Jesus taught His disciples to address the living God like this: “Our Father who art in heaven” (Mt. 6:9).

How would you describe God? Why is your perception of Him limited?

Heavenly Father, help me to know You as You are.

Author: Tim Gustavson