Wrestling With Fear
Introduction
Good morning! I’m glad you joined us today, even on this rainy Sunday. Perhaps some of you had to overcome fear just to be here. Today, as we continue our “Wrestling with God” series, we’re focusing on wrestling with fear.
A Childhood Fear Story
My youngest child, John David, experienced fear firsthand in his preschool years. When he was in 3K, his teachers dyed the toilet water green for St. Patrick’s Day and told the children that a leprechaun had come through the toilet. Imagine the terror for a potty-training three-year-old! He was suddenly afraid of something he didn’t even know existed.
This story reminds us how fear often comes from external sources—things people put into our minds.
The 10 Most Common Fears
Fear is universal, but what are the most common fears people face?
Fear of Public Speaking – The most common fear, affecting 75% of people.
Fear of Heights – A survival instinct telling you, “Don’t fall!”
Fear of Spiders – Statistically more common in women than men.
Fear of Snakes – Likely due to their danger.
Fear of Confined Spaces (Claustrophobia) – Elevators, tunnels, and tight spaces can trigger this fear.
Fear of Failure – A psychological fear tied to procrastination and perfectionism.
Fear of Death – A universal fear we all think about.
Fear of the Dark (Nyctophobia) – It’s not the darkness itself but the unknown within it.
Fear of Social Rejection – Often tied to social anxiety and online scrutiny.
Fear of Flying – A fear many tolerate to reach their destinations.
What Should We Do When Faced with Fear?
Fear is inevitable, but how do we handle it? Today, we’ll look at how Jacob dealt with fear in Genesis 32 when he was about to reunite with his brother Esau.
Genesis 32:22-32 – Jacob Wrestles with God
Jacob, preparing to meet Esau, sends his family and possessions ahead. Left alone, he wrestles with a man (interpreted as God or an angel) throughout the night. This struggle ends with Jacob’s hip being dislocated, yet he refuses to let go until he receives a blessing.
God then renames Jacob to Israel, meaning "one who struggles with God". Jacob names the place Peniel because he says, "I have seen God face to face, and yet my life has been delivered."
This passage teaches us key lessons on how to handle fear.
3 Actions Fear Should Lead Us To
1. Fear Should Lead Us to Prayer
Jacob’s fear of Esau wasn’t unfounded—20 years prior, he had deceived Esau and stolen his blessing. Now, hearing Esau was coming with 400 men, Jacob expected the worst. His first response was fear, but his second was prayer.
Genesis 32:9-12
Jacob prays, acknowledging God’s past promises and asking for protection. He confesses:
God’s faithfulness: “I am not worthy of all the steadfast love and faithfulness you have shown.”
His fear: “Deliver me from my brother Esau, for I fear him.”
God’s promise: “You said you would make my offspring as numerous as the sand of the sea.”
When fear grips us, prayer should be our first response.
2. Fear Should Lead Us to Preparation
Jacob didn’t just pray—he also prepared. He sent Esau gifts:
Goats, sheep, camels, cows, bulls, and donkeys—valued at over $600,000 today.
He strategically spaced the gifts to soften Esau’s heart.
Biblical Wisdom on Preparation:
Proverbs 6:6-8 – “Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. She prepares her food in the summer.”
Proverbs 21:5 – “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.”
While faith is essential, God also calls us to prepare wisely.
3. Fear Should Lead Us to Humility
Jacob, known for manipulation and cunning, now wrestles with God. Left alone, he has no one to scheme against—only himself and God.
This encounter leaves him physically wounded but spiritually transformed.
Why Does God Wrestle With Us?
To Overcome Our Self-Reliance
Jacob relied on his own intelligence and strategy for years. But in this moment, he needed God.
His prayer: “Bless me, Lord!” shows his surrender.
To Change Us
After wrestling with God, Jacob is renamed "Israel."
His limp serves as a lifelong reminder of his dependence on God.
To Bless Us
Jacob’s struggle ends in a blessing—not because he was strong, but because he held onto God.
Closing Encouragement
Jacob's fear led him to prayer, preparation, and humility—and ultimately, reconciliation with Esau (which we’ll explore next week).
What About Your Fear?
Whatever fear you’re facing today—job loss, health struggles, uncertainty about the future—God is calling you to trust Him.
Pray through your fear.
Prepare wisely.
Humble yourself before God.
Final Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the struggles that lead us closer to You. Help us turn to prayer instead of panic, preparation instead of passivity, and humility instead of pride. Lord, remind us that we cannot bless ourselves—we need You. May we leave here today with confidence in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
