Genesis 32:26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaks. And he said, I will not let you go, except you bless me. I. EXPLAIN THIS HOLY WRESTLING IN PRAYER. Wrestling implies some resistance to be overcome. Some of the chief obstructions which must be overcome are — 1. A sense of guilt whelming the soul. 2. A frowning Providence discouraging the mind. 3. Unbelieving thoughts and inward temptations. 4. Coldness and slothfulness of the heart. 5. Discouragement through Divine delays. II. THE REASONABLENESS OF IMPORTUNITY IN PRAYING. 1. It strengthens in our minds a sense of God's glory. 2. Our unworthiness vindicates it. 3. The inestimable value of the blessings to be obtained requires it. III. ITS ADVANTAGES. 1. It prepares for blessings in many cases: it is itself the actual possession of them. 2. It has the promises of success. 3. Memorable examples confirm its worth. IV. IMPROVEMENT. 1. How many have cause to mourn their lack of this spirit! 2. Its absence is one cause of the low state of religion. 3. As you would persevere in prayer, be watchful and circumspect, observe the course of Providence, be much in intercession for others. (Dr. J. Wotherspoon.) Parallel Verses KJV: And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. |
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