In the Arena with God

Jacob said, "I will not let You go unless You bless me." . . . Then He said, "Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel."
GENESIS 32:26, 28
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In the Arena with God
Even if [God] hides Himself in a room in the house and does not want access to be given to anyone, do not draw back but follow. If He does not want to listen, knock at the door of the room; raise a shout! For this is the highest sacrifice, not to cease praying and seeking until we conquer Him. He has already surrendered Himself to us so that we may be certain of victory, for He has bound Himself to His promises and pledged His faithfulness with an oath, saying (John 16:23): "Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father, He will give it to you in My name." Likewise (Mark 16:16): "He who believes and is baptized will be saved." These promises will never disappoint you, unless you refuse to follow and seek. In this case, through your fault, by snoring and sleeping, you lose the most certain promises and Christ Himself, because you refuse to enter this arena and take up the contest with God where the possession of these promises is seen and flourishes. This Man exercises Jacob until true strength and firmness of faith shows itself. For this reason, He changes his name. He says: "Your name shall no more be called Jacob. You were previously called a trampler because of your brother, but they have not yet imposed your true name on you. Your name will be Israel. For your fortitude and the invincible strength of heart by which you have conquered God and men have merited this."
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