Of Israel

Romans 9:6 (KJV) Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:

Jacob had his name changed to Israel by God after he wrestled with him all night long and refused to let go until he was blessed. When we wrestle with God in prayer, the encounter becomes a battle of wills. The Jacob spirit in us will always follow after the flesh. Conversely, the Israel spirit in us will desire the spiritual things of God. In order to be changed by God, we must surrender our will and choose to take on his. The Lord is a gentleman who will not force anyone to serve or be obedient to him or his word. 

Being converted by the word is a critical part of serving the Lord through hardships and enduring until the end. Each of us must wrestle with God for ourselves. This involves working to build an intimate relationship with him and knowing the truth of the word of God in deeper and deeper ways as we mature in him. Jesus is coming back for those who are a part of his spiritual kingdom. We cannot just be in Jesus. We also must be of him by being identified as his sons and daughters. Victory in the war against the flesh comes through repentance of our sins and baptism in Jesus Name. 

Sermon preached by Pastor J. Davidson and summarized by Sister Ginger Styers