The reason that we are still alive today is because of God’s protective heavenly hands full of grace and mercy. Let’s be honest, none of us would exist without him. The Biblical story of Jacob illustrates this. Even with a broken hip, Jacob paused to recognize that he was still alive. Jacob realized the sun rose above him as he limped past a place called Peniel.
The truth is, without God’s protective hand, we wouldn’t be here today. The reason you didn’t die because of an accident or a cancerous tumor is because of God’s protective hand and he has a plan for you. Isn’t this good news! Do you recall a time when some of your friends didn’t think you would make it because of your circumstance? Yet, God rescued you and placed you where you are now.
When God deals with us on important issues, he often does so individually, not as part of a crowd. In fact, being in a crowd can keep you from hearing his voice. Jacob’s story also highlights the importance of authenticity. For years, Jacob lived as a deceiver, always pretending to be someone he wasn’t. But true transformation and blessing came only when he was willing to acknowledge his true self.
In our own lives, we often wear masks, hiding our true selves from others and sometimes even from ourselves. We fear that if people knew our struggles, our doubts and our failures, they would reject us. However, Jacob’s story suggests that embracing and acknowledging our true selves is precisely how we open ourselves up to God’s transformative power.
Are you hiding from your circumstances? Is it keeping you from revealing your real self? The key to a successful transformation lies in your personal relationship with God. This is what Jacob had to learn through his encounter with God. Successful transformation is about creating lasting positive change by addressing the underlying reasons for your condition.
The Psalmist often depicted his desire to be created anew, cleansed, and renewed by God’s grace, reflecting a fundamental shift in his relationship with God and his understanding of himself. So, recognize that you are not perfect by removing your mask. Remember that no matter your circumstances may be, you are still here because of God’s goodness. Be blessed and Never give up! Never give up! Never give up!
Dr. Walter Ghosten
