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In today’s reading (Genesis 32–34), we witness Jacob’s growth as he depends more and more on God. Yet, we also see that his journey toward maturity is ongoing. His story reminds us that spiritual growth is a process, and though we mature, we’re never so good as to think we are perfect.

Before his reunion with Esau, in fear of retribution, Jacob was forced to reflect on God’s unmerited favor toward him. He said,

“I am not worthy of the least of all the deeds of steadfast love and all the faithfulness that you have shown to your servant, for with only my staff I crossed this Jordan, and now I have become two camps.” (Genesis 32:10)

He also reminded God of His promise to him. This is a clear indication that Jacob was the chosen line through which the Abrahamic Covenant would continue:

“But you said, ‘I will surely do you good and make your offspring as the sand of the sea, which cannot be numbered.’” (Genesis 32:12)

Jacob’s faith has grown; he understands that his future blessings will come from God’s hand alone. The night before he met Esau, he wrestled with a divine visitor and refused to let go until he received a blessing from God. As strange as that may sound, we can’t deny his belief that God works on man’s behalf.

Just as God changed the names of Abram and Sarai when their faith matured at ages 100 and 90, He renamed Jacob—the deceiver—to Israel, meaning “one who wrestles with God and man and prevails.”

Jacob’s humility proves his spiritual maturity. In Genesis 33:5, when Jacob meets Esau, Esau asks about Jacob’s family, and Jacob responds by saying, "These are…

“The children whom God has graciously given your servant.”

Though God had already declared that Esau would serve Jacob (Genesis 25:23), Jacob does not boast in his position. Instead, he humbles himself, referring to himself as his brother’s servant.

True spiritual maturity is marked by humility. When we humble ourselves, allowing God’s strength to shine through us, we display evidence of a mature faith.

While Jacob’s faith is growing, his story is far from complete. We see this in chapter 34 in the story of his daughter, Dinah’s, defilement. This event foreshadows how king David would later mishandle the assault of his daughter—Tamar—failing to act decisively as a leader and protector.

Once again, we’re reminded that God’s mercy and grace are not given because of human worthiness but because God is good. Even Israel, the namesake of God’s chosen people, still had lessons to learn and trials to endure.

Jacob’s journey teaches us a critical truth: Spiritual maturity is not about gaining personal strength but learning to be desperately dependent on God.

We grow in faith not when we exalt ourselves, but when we humble ourselves before Him.

Today, ask yourself:

• How can I become less, so that God becomes more apparent in my life?

• Where am I still holding back control instead of surrendering to God?

May we, like Jacob, press on in faith, learning that true strength is found in surrender.