From Here to Forever

The Time of Jacob's Trouble

Because of the deception practiced to secure his father's blessing intended for Esau. Jacob had fled, alarmed by his brother's deadly threats. After remaining many years an exile, he had set out to return to his native country. On reaching the border he was filled with terror by the tidings of Esau's approach, doubtless bent on revenge. Jacob's only hope was in the mercy of God; his only defense must be prayer. HF 375.1

Alone with God, he confessed his sin with deep humiliation. The crisis in his life had come. In the darkness he continued praying. Suddenly a hand was laid upon his shoulder. He thought an enemy was seeking his life. With all the energy of despair he wrestled with his assailant. As the day began to break, the stranger put forth his superhuman power. Jacob seemed paralyzed and fell, a helpless, weeping suppliant, upon the neck of his mysterious antagonist. He knew then that it was the Angel of the covenant with whom he had been in conflict. Long had he endured remorse for his sin; now he must have the assurance that it was pardoned. The Angel urged, “Let me go, for the day breaketh,” but the patriarch exclaimed, “I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.” Jacob confessed his weakness and unworthiness, yet trusted the mercy of a covenant-keeping God. Through repentance and self-surrender, this sinful mortal prevailed with the Majesty of heaven. HF 375.2

Satan had accused Jacob before God because of his sin; he had moved Esau to march against him. During the patriarch's night of wrestling, Satan endeavored to discourage him and break his hold on God. He was driven almost to despair; but he had sincerely repented of his sin and held fast the Angel and urged his petition with earnest cries until he prevailed. HF 375.3

As Satan accused Jacob, he will urge his accusations against the people of God, but the company who keep the commandments of God resist his supremacy. He sees that holy angels are guarding them, and he infers that their sins have been pardoned. He has an accurate knowledge of the sins he has tempted them to commit and declares that the Lord cannot in justice forgive their sins and yet destroy him and his angels. He demands that they be given into his hands to destroy. HF 376.1

The Lord permits him to try them to the uttermost. Their confidence in God, their faith, will be severely tested. Satan endeavors to terrify them. He hopes so to destroy their faith that they will yield to temptation and turn from their allegiance to God. HF 376.2