Jacob Wrestles With God: Finding Hope in Life’s Messy Moments
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Ever feel like you’re wrestling with God — fighting Him on His plans, struggling with trust, dragging your messy baggage behind you? That’s exactly what Jacob wrestles with God over in the Bible. And honestly? It feels pretty close to home.
I’ve been reading through the Bible in chronological order, watching how God uses flawed people to build His promises. Jacob’s story is one of the most raw, messy, hopeful pieces yet.
Why I Love the Story of Jacob Wrestling With God
Jacob wrestles with God, literally.
“This left Jacob all alone in the camp, and a man came and wrestled with him until the dawn began to break.” (Genesis 32:24 NLT)
He was running from his brother Esau, terrified of what might happen. That night changed everything — he fought with God until daybreak, got a permanent limp, and received a new name: Israel. It’s messy. It’s painful. But it’s beautiful.
“Your name will no longer be Jacob… From now on you will be called Israel, because you have fought with God and with men and have won.” (Genesis 32:28 NLT)
Jacob Wrestling With God: How It Speaks to Me
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wrestled with God. Not physically (thankfully 😂), but in my heart. Fighting Him on timing, trying to hold on to control, terrified of outcomes.
Jacob’s limp tells me that even when I fight God, He still marks me as His. Even when I’m scared, He still calls me by a new name. Even when I’ve made a mess, He still has a plan to bring me home.
Making Peace: Jacob and Esau Reunite
When Jacob finally meets Esau again, he’s shaking in his sandals. But instead of revenge, Esau runs to meet him, embraces him, and kisses him.
All that time Jacob worried about how badly this would go — and God had been working on Esau’s heart the whole time.
Why The Story of Jacob Wrestling With God Matters
This is why I love reading through the Bible in order — these stories build on each other. They show messy people (God’s chosen family) making huge mistakes, running, wrestling, doubting, and yet God still faithfully carrying out His promises.
It gives me so much hope for my own life. If God could weave Jacob’s chaos into His bigger story, He can absolutely handle mine. And yours.
Want to Follow Along?
I’m still slowly making my way through my chronological Bible plan, and I’ll be sharing more about Joseph’s crazy story soon.
👉 If you want to dive into the Bible this way too, here is the NLT Chronological Life Application Study Bible I am reading. Also, make sure to check out the simple reading plan printable I use — it’s helped me stay consistent without rushing.
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About the Host
Hey sweet friend — I’m Ashley, the heart behind SimplyBlessedDesignz and the voice of Unscripted Conversations.
I’m a faith-filled creative who believes in Jesus, Dollar Tree flips, and showing up even when life gets messy. Whether I’m podcasting, crafting, or cooking something from scratch, my prayer is always the same: that you leave here encouraged and reminded you’re never alone.
Grab your coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s do this life—one grace-filled day at a time. 💛