We are the co-heirs of God’s throne through Christ, and with him. As such, we’ve been given dignity and honor for his sake. All the same, this doesn’t make our journey through this world a cakewalk. Many blessings will come on the other side of struggle.
Jacob is known for wrestling with God and refusing to let go until he was blessed. While perhaps we’re less likely to pursue such a match, there is wisdom here. And all too often we want the blessings of God without the struggle.
For instance, the struggle might be in the form of discipline. But this correction is for our good even when it’s not pleasant in the moment. God is training us for right living, just like we do with our own children. Yet it is only through submitting to this struggle that we receive the rewards on the other side.
But while discipline includes correcting wrong behaviors, it’s also about shaping us into the men who will reflect his glory. In this way, it’s like basic training for the military. The discipline here is not punishment per se, but it is the necessary struggle on the path toward becoming an effective soldier. And God doesn’t want us to wear his name as a mere social identity; he wants us to be effective in advancing his kingdom – producing the fruit of righteousness that serves those around us. And struggle is the necessary path to become such a warrior and king for his glory.
Of course, the struggle will look different for everyone. And there’s no honor for our own foolish choices. But it’s helpful to remember that our struggles might indicate we’re on the right road to receive our blessing. And, like Jacob, we must not give up or let go until we get it.
In the end, struggle is often the key to blessings – submitting to the discipline and training God provides for us to become the men who can effectively handle the work of his kingdom.
