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Jacob entered a new area of life. After his wrestling with the Lord there are indications of a new beginning for him. He passed over the stream knowing that he must face an angry brother who had vowed to kill him. A new day dawned as he was about to enter the presence of his brother. Gen. 32:31 The sun rose upon him. Even as in the new birth, the Sun of righteousness, arises in our lives. Mal. 4:2 The darkness of the night of struggle turns into a day of glorious light. The most important event leading to this new life was the sealing of the covenant which the Lord made with him by the touching of his thigh. Jacobs walk was completely altered. From afar he could be identified by his limp. He walked a new walk, just like one who comes to Christ, all things become new, especially their mode of life.
The act of the Lord when He touched Jacobs thigh was highly significant. It not only was a sign effecting Jacob but it was to be passed on to his posterity. The placing of the hand upon the thigh was an assurance that the one who was responsible to fulfill the covenant would accomplish the deed for which the promise was made. Abraham in seeking a wife for Isaac commissioned the longest serving servant in his tent to make an oath with him that he would not find a wife for Isaac among the Canaanite’s. The wife of Isaac was to be of the kindred of Abraham and from his own country.
Gen. 24:2 -4 This was an oath of the strongest kind for it was sworn to be wrought in the name of the LORD. Jacob or Israel made a covenant with Joseph of the same kind, that is by Joseph placing his hand on Israelís thigh. Gen. 47:29-31 Failure to carry out the oath would bring condemnation not on the one whoís thigh was touched but upon the one who touched. Definitely a strong reason to execute the promise made in agreeing with such a powerful oath. Gen. 32:32.
Jacob on hearing of the approaching Esau with four hundred men was filled with consternation. He divided his people and animals into two groups. Gen. 32:7 In as much as we are following a pattern signifying a last day revival, lets make this double band a sign of the double portion. A term which is significant of the fullness of the Spirit coming upon the people of the Lord in the end of the age. We are viewing here an event which will take place and bring Jacob into agreement with Esau. Jacobs only possible chance of being reconciled to Esau is though both sides coming under the influence and power of the New Covenant. The covenant which the Lord made and accomplished in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. In Him all nations, all races become one and are blessed.