God changed Jacob’s name to Israel (Genesis 32:28). How do you pray? Do you pray a multiple-choice prayer? Do you give God a few options on how you would like your prayer answered? Do you pray a bargain prayer, using "if you and then I"? For example, “God, if you help me get out of this one, then I won’t miss church for a year.” These prayers tend to be more about aligning God to our will rather than simply praying, “God, let your will be done in my life.” When Jacob fled from his brother’s wrath, he prayed an if-then prayer. “God, if you will be with me and bring me back safely, then you will be my God and I’ll give you a tenth” (Genesis 28:20-21). Twenty years later, Jacob returned to the land with a large family, cows, and sheep. God had kept Jacob safe. One night, on his journey home, Jacob wrestled with a man whom Jacob believed to be God. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. Israel emerged with a new name and a new walk and dedicated the rest of his life to God. Our prayer life reflects our spiritual maturity. When we can come to God on God’s terms and surrender our will to God, we are on our way to being more like Jesus, who prayed, “Not my will, but thine be done.” Israel went to Bethel, where he first prayed the if-then prayer. He made a pillar of stones and worshiped God. 

Lord of All People, give us the desire for your will above our own will. Help us to be dedicated to you without rendering conditions to remain faithful to you. Regardless of joy or sorrow, our faith and hope is in you. Amen.