“…he touched the hollow of his thigh; and Jacob’s thigh was put out of joint as he wrestled with him.” Genesis 32:25
Genesis 32-33 records Jacob’s encounter with his brother Esau as Jacob returns to the Promised Land. Twenty years earlier, he fled from Esau, who, in a state of rage, wanted to kill Jacob for stealing the birthright. Note the strategy employed by Jacob as he anticipates meeting his brother: He sends a letter assuring Esau he has no need or intention of seeking part of Isaac’s inheritance (32: 4-6). Jacob divides his possessions in two and separates them (32: 8-9). He pleads his case before God, reminding Him of His promise to Abraham and Isaac (32:10-13). He then selects a generous gift for Esau and sends them ahead (32:14-22). Then Jacob separates his family from his possessions and divides them so as to best protect the wife of his choice (32:23-24; 33:1-2). He humbles himself before his brother when they meet (33:3-11). Finally, Jacob disassociates himself from Esau and his men lest Esau changes his mind and becomes angry once again with Jacob (33:12-17).
In the midst of this ordeal, God comes to Jacob and makes him lame, after which He blesses him (32:25-33). It seems that God assisted Jacob as he laid out his strategy by ensuring that Jacob would approach his brother, a broken, crippled man (possibly one to be pitied).
Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man’s mind plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.” Each of us, in a spirit of dependence upon God, must live by his wits. But the Lord takes our plans, modifies them, and uses them in accordance with His own purposes. Can you see God’s gracious hand on your life as He breaks you in order to bless you?
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