If you’re in the middle of a struggle right now and you’re seeking God, clinging to His truth, leaning on His Word but still can’t seem to see your way forward, do not despair. If God is with you, then you are in the best and safest place you can be.

Struggles come from many places. Sometimes they’re the result of our own sin and poor choices. Other times they stem from circumstances beyond our control. But whatever the cause, don’t abandon the struggle in search of an easier way. Reject the cheap comforts, the numbing habits, and the false security of coping mechanisms. Be in the struggle. Because if God has led you here, He has something for you in it.

Genesis 32:22–32 tells the story of Jacob, returning to the land promised to his father and grandfather. He was afraid. His brother Esau, whom he had deceived long ago, was coming to meet him. That night, Jacob found himself wrestling with a Man, who we now understand to be the Lord Himself. They wrestled all night. God could have stopped the match, spoken a word of truth, and left it at that. But He didn’t. He let Jacob wrestle.

And in the end, Jacob cried out for a blessing. We don’t know exactly what was in his heart in that moment, but if you’ve ever wrestled with God’s truth, desperate for transformation, you understand. “Lord, make me different.” Jacob, the deceiver, the manipulator, was changed that night. His name, his direction, his heart. He walked away wounded, yes, but also blessed, transformed, and made new.

Whether your struggle is of your own making or the result of life’s cruelty, know this: God desires to bless you with new life. That’s why Jesus came. He died on your behalf because He knows you can’t make yourself right. Only His blood can cover your shame. Only His grace can set you free.

Call out to Him. Acknowledge your sin. Invite Him to rule your life.

“The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy.” – Psalm 145:8

Don’t run from the wrestle. Embrace the struggle. God meets us there.