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The prophet here introduced a reference to Jacob, one of the ancestors of the chosen people, in order to encourage his descendants to apply for mercy to the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob. The Eternal and Unchangeable remained the same; and what God had done for the ancient saints he was willing to do for their posterity. The expression used with regard to Jacob deserves attention: "In his strength he put forth power [or, 'prowess'] with God."

I. WHENCE POWER WITH GOD PROCEEDS.

1. From a sense of need and dependence on the part of the suppliant. He who needs much and sorely will plead powerfully.

2. From a conviction of Divine bounty and kindness. He who approaches an unwilling or niggardly person, with the view of asking from him a boon, loses half his energy by the consciousness of the illiberal character to which he appeals. But he who comes to God comes to a King of boundless resources, a Father of infinite compassion; and the knowledge of this should prompt to regent entreaty.

II. HOW POWER WITH GOD MANIFESTS ITSELF. At Peniel and at Bethel Jacob proved himself a true suppliant; witness his "wrestling" at the one place and his "vow" at the other. We have no power to command God, but we have power to entreat him. We may feel our feebleness, but if our prayer be sincere, ardent, and persevering, it will have power with the Eternal.

"Yield to me, Lord, for I am weak,
But confident in self-despair."

III. WHAT IT IS WINCH POWER WITH GOD SECURES.

1. Personal forgiveness and acceptance. Above all things the suppliant sinner craves for this. To be in the light of the Divine favor is, of all things, the most urgently desirable.

2. The supply of every real need.

3. The relative blessings sought in intercessory prayer.

APPLICATION. Let not the thought of God's greatness cripple the energies or daunt the heart of the lowly applicant for mercy. Great as he is, he delights to be conquered by the urgent entreaties of his children.

"And when my all of strength shall fail,
I shall with the God-Man prevail." ? T.

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Parallel Verses

KJV: He took his brother by the heel in the womb, and by his strength he had power with God:

WEB: In the womb he took his brother by the heel; and in his manhood he contended with God.