God’s Presence

Scripture Focus:
“And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. And when Jacob saw them, he
said, This is God’s host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim.” Genesis 32:1–2
After Jacob left Laban, it was time for him to meet Esau, and he was seriously distressed. He
was afraid, shaken, and fighting within, because of course, he remembered that he had cheated
Esau, and Esau had sworn to kill him. Don’t forget, that was why Jacob ran to Laban in the first
place. So now, facing his past, the man was really scared.
But here’s what’s so encouraging: this chapter that would describe Jacob’s fearful reunion with
Esau began with God visiting Jacob. The Bible says in verses 1 and 2 that Jacob had an
encounter with angels; God reassuring him of His presence. This is beautiful. Maybe you’re also
about to face something scary: an interview, a confrontation, a difficult decision. And deep
down, you’re scared; you feel like you’ll fail or that the enemy will win, be rest assured that you
are not alone. God is with you.
The angel of the Lord met Jacob, and he said, “This is God’s camp.” That’s like God saying, “I
am here.” Even though Jacob was still afraid, God’s presence was there. And that’s our greatest
advantage in life; the presence of God.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You because I’m not alone. Even when I’m afraid, let Your presence strengthen me.
Amen.
Further Reading: Isaiah 41:10