Jacob’s history is also an assurance that [in the final time of trouble] God will not cast off those who
have been deceived and tempted and betrayed into sin, but who have returned unto Him with true
repentance. While Satan seeks to destroy this class, God will send His angels to comfort and protect
them in the time of peril.
The assaults of Satan are fierce and determined, his delusions are terrible; but the Lord’s eye is upon
His people, and His ear listens to their cries. Their affliction is great, the flames of the furnace seem
about to consume them; but the Refiner will bring them forth as gold tried in the fire. God’s love for
His children during the period of their severest trial is as strong and tender as in the days of their
sunniest prosperity; but it is needful for them to be placed in the furnace of fire; their earthliness
must be consumed, that the image of Christ may be perfectly reflected.
The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay,
and hunger—a faith that will not faint though severely tried. The period of probation is granted to
all to prepare for that time. Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His victory
is an evidence of the power of importunate prayer. All who will lay hold of God’s promises, as he
did, and be as earnest and persevering as he was, will succeed as he succeeded. Those who are
unwilling to deny self, to agonize before God, to pray long and earnestly for His blessing, will not
obtain it.
Wrestling with God—how few know what it is! How few have ever had their souls drawn out after
God with intensity of desire until every power is on the stretch. When waves of despair which no
language can express sweep over the suppliant, how few cling with unyielding faith to the promises
of God.