This post is Day 18 in a series of studies about “Psalms 146-150”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Psalms 146-150 – Day 18

Jacob and Israel in the first of these verses are the same people. Jacob was the twin brother of Esau, sons of Isaac and Rebecca. Much later in his life, as he was preparing to meet his brother Esau after many years of separation, God changed his name to Israel.

Psalm 147:19-20

He has revealed His word to Jacob, His laws and decrees to Israel.
He has done this for no other nation; they do not know His laws.
Praise the Lord.

The Thought

Jacob and Israel in the first part of these verses are the same people. Jacob was the twin brother of Esau, the son of Isaac and Rebecca (Genesis 25:19-34). Much later in his life, on the night he was preparing to meet his brother Esau after many years of separation, God changed Jacob’s name to Israel (Genesis 32).

Jacob sent messengers ahead to prepare the meeting with his brother Esau, and he separated himself from the camp in order to spend time alone, but he was not alone. This worried man had a vision of a ladder reaching to Heaven with angels ascending and descending. One of the angels fought with Jacob all night long (Genesis 32:24-26), and the result was a displaced hip joint which caused Jacob to limp for the rest of his life. After Jacob asked his opponent to bless him his named was changed to Israel.

Jacob/Israel had 12 sons who became the twelve tribes of Israel as they are known today. The Jewish nation counts its history from that time.

It seems that ever since the beginning of the Israelite nation there have been enemies trying to destroy them, but God has protected and preserved them. That is continuing in our time!

Action

Read Genesis 32 today and imagine fighting with an angel! They can be extremely powerful!

Pray for the nation of Israel today, and for the war they are involved in at the time of writing, to end with peace.

Praise God that just as He had a vision and plan for Jacob, so He has one for you and your loved ones, ask Him to help you to not be diverted from that plan.

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