Victorious Faith

1) Jacob’s Wandering (Genesis 28:12-22)

God is merciful with us in spite of our sin.

Jacob had to leave his family because of his sin.

Jacob’s nature was scheming to get ahead.

He received it from his forefathers (Abraham and Isaac)

He passed it on to his children.

Jacob’s strength was in his shrewdness (he outwitted everyone, or so he thought).

God’s promises are based upon His character.

God promised him the land.

God promised him a great number of descendants.

God promised him the lineage of the Messiah.

God promised to go with him and bring him back.

Immature faith seeks to bargain with God.

2) Jacob’s Wrestling (Genesis 32:10, 24-32)

Victory begins with an acknowledgement of who we are before God.

“I’m not worthy of the least of all the mercies you have shown.”

He had gone out with only his staff.

He returned with a large company of people and flocks.

“What is your name?” Jacob – deceiver, heel catcher.

Jacob’s name embodied all that he was.

Victory is received through dependence upon God alone.

God had to get Jacob to a point where his only hope was the blessing of God.

God’s blessing was a changed nature signified by a new name.

Victorious faith will be marked by humility.

Power with God comes in our weakness.

Strength with God comes from dependent supplication.

3) Jacob’s Worship (47:31; 48:15-16)

Jacob bowed in worship to God at the end of his life.

Jacob recognized God’s leading throughout his life. – Genesis 31:12–13 “And he said, ‘Lift up your eyes and see, all the goats that mate with the flock are striped, spotted, and mottled, for I have seen all that Laban is doing to you. I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed a pillar and made a vow to me. Now arise, go out from this land and return to the land of your kindred.’ ””

Jacob praised God for his redemption.

Victorious faith is displayed through worship.