July 21, 2021

And [God] said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.” Genesis 32:28

Glorious names, symbols, and metaphors are given by God throughout Scripture. These literary devices serve a wonderful purpose. A single word can instantly bring to mind an entire scenario of God at work on our behalf. The name “Israel” was first mentioned when God renamed Jacob (Genesis 32:28). It was a pinnacle moment in his life. He came to the point of admitting his deceptive ways in the past and repenting from them. To affirm his sincerity, God gave him the new name of “Israel” meaning “overcomer with God” or “prevailer with God”. This lofty name must have been a great encouragement! The “children of Israel” became the “nation of Israel” and, ideally, through this faithful people, the gospel would be shared with the entire world. God led, guided, protected, chastened, rebuked, corrected, & loved them. 

 Unfortunately, they did not fulfill their commission. But God, in His gracious mercy and faithfulness, sent His Son, Emmanuel—God with us—and it is fascinating to note just how many times the word “fulfill” is used in Matthew’s gospel — all in reference to Jesus, who said:

 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33

 Jesus, the perfect Overcomer, intends for us to also become overcomers.  His love is powerful—SO powerful, in fact, that He is more than able to lead us in the paths of righteousness (Psalm 23:3) all the way to that place which He is preparing for us! To know Him is to love and follow Him faithfully.  

 Make it a point to revisit often the promises to overcomers in Revelation chapters 2 & 3 (They are listed at the end of the devotion for July 6). As we move rapidly to the close of this world’s history — the 2nd coming of Jesus — these promises will add much-needed strength and endurance to our walk. 

 God’s end-time people are described as patient commandment keepers who have the faith of Jesus. They are not “defiled with women” (women here being a metaphor for churches with false doctrines).

 These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. Revelation 14:4

 Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Revelation 14:12