32:1-21
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Verses 1-12. Even though he knew what God had promised him, Jacob was motivated by fear. Do not give in to fear, but if you feel fear, as Jacob did, pray and call to mind what God's Word says (verses 9-12).
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Verses 13-21. Even though it was unnecessary for Jacob, it is a good idea, if you want to bring peace into a relationship, to give generous gifts to the person. Gifts have a way of calming people down and winning favor (Proverbs 21:14).
32:22-32
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We will sometimes have to wrestle and struggle through stressful situations in life in order to grow. But like Jacob, through you struggle with people, God will help you and give you strength.
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In times of great turmoil we will struggle. These struggles are often painful and wounding (verses 25,31), but when we prevail with the strength of God, we grow from it! Be thankful for the struggles of life, as these produce stronger character in you (Romans 5:3-4).
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Jacob was in turmoil in this time, and an angel came and wrestled with him. To clarify, Jacob was not fighting God. God wrestled alongside him, strengthening him against the angel, so that he prevailed (Hosea 12:3-4a).
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We also wrestle, though not against flesh and blood. We wrestle against spiritual forces of wickedness. And the armor of God gives us strength to prevail (see Ephesians 6:10-18).
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Relieve stress, in one way, by exerting yourself in prayer, and this will help to relieve and strengthen you (Hosea 12:3-4).
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Verse 26. Notice that Jacob was persistent.
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Be persistent to pray, and be persistent in your works. This proves faithfulness, and it will bring much good into your life.
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33:1-4
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Originally, Jacob fled from Esau because Esau had plotted to kill him (Genesis 27:41). But now, much time had passed, and Esau was not only pacified, but wanted to show favor to Jacob. This is another reminder that time heals most wounds in relationships.
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Remember this, and don't rush reconciliation where patience is needed.
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33:5-20
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Verses 6-10. Notice that Jacob and his family spoke to Esau respectfully, referring to him as “my lord”, bowing before him, and respecting him as they respected God. Speak and behave submissively to people you want to secure peace with. Treat them with great respect!
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Verses 13-14. Even though Jacob and Esau were now happy to see each other, Jacob knew that his family was his first priority. Be considerate of how your activities will affect your family, and don't let friendships cause you to neglect your family.