The Story of Redemption....8

 “All night Jacob wrestled with the angel, making supplication for a blessing. . .Jacob was determined to hold the angel, not by physical strength, but by the power of living faith. . .The angel might have exercised his supernatural power and forced himself from Jacob’s grasp, but he did not choose to do this. When he saw that he prevailed not against Jacob, the angel touched Jacob’s thigh, which was immediately put out of joint. But Jacob would not give up his earnest efforts even for bodily pain. . .His determination was stronger in the last moments of the conflict than at the beginning. . .Jacob’s earnest, persevering wrestling with the angel should be an example for Christians. . .All who desire the blessing of God and will lay hold of the promises and be as earnest and persevering as Jacob was, will succeed as he succeeded. . .Those who do not make strong efforts now to exercise persevering faith, will be wholly unprepared to exercise that faith which will enable them to stand in the day of trouble.” The Story of Redemption, Pgs. 74, 77-78