Life's most profound transformations often begin in our darkest, most desperate moments. This truth is powerfully illustrated in the biblical account of Jacob, a man on the run, whose life was forever changed by a supernatural meeting with God. This event, far from accidental, offers timeless lessons on the benefits of a divine encounter for every believer today.
The Backstory: A Man Fleeing His Past
The story, recounted by Venerable Stephen Wolemonwu, Rector of Ibru Ecumenical Centre, Agbarha-Otor, finds Jacob in a state of utter despair. After deceiving his father Isaac and stealing the blessing meant for his older brother Esau, Jacob faced a deadly threat. In Genesis 27:41, Esau vowed to kill him once their father died. Forced to flee for his life, Jacob left Beersheba for Haran, carrying a heavy burden of guilt, fear, and deep emotional pain.
Exhausted and alone, he stopped in an insignificant place called Luz. It was here, in this "no man’s land," at his lowest point—scared, tired, and wrestling with remorse—that God met him. Jacob renamed that place Bethel, meaning ‘House of God,’ marking the location of his life-altering encounter.
Understanding the Human Heart and the Need for Healing
Wolemonwu emphasizes that Jacob's past was marred by deceit and a naturally wicked heart, a condition scripture confirms. "The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick" (Jeremiah 17:9). Yet, this narrative shows that God meets us precisely in our brokenness. Often, like Jacob, we run—from past mistakes, from hurt, from exhaustion, or from family strife. But running doesn't solve the core problem; we need healing.
God, knowing the state of the depraved heart, promises a solution: "I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you" (Ezekiel 36:26). The divine encounter is God's initiative to doctor and re-create a clean heart within us, even when we least expect it.
The Life-Changing Benefits of a Divine Encounter
A divine encounter is a direct, personal experience with God that leads to spiritual awakening and transformation. For Jacob, it came through a dream at Bethel. For us today, the benefits remain profoundly relevant:
It Brings Direction and Defines Purpose: God can reveal His specific plans, offering clarity and motivation for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11).
It Facilitates Total Transformation: This encounter doctors our entire existence, making us a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17). It leads to inner healing and freedom from fear.
It Deepens Our Connection with God: Such experiences foster intimacy and trust, drawing us nearer to Him as promised in James 4:8.
It Provides Comfort and Empowerment: In our weariness, God's presence brings His peace (John 14:27) and the strength to face challenges (Philippians 4:13).
It Grants Revelation and Spiritual Growth: Divine encounters accelerate maturity in faith, granting wisdom and new perspectives on our circumstances.
Conclusion: Your Encounter Awaits
The story of Jacob teaches that no one is beyond the reach of God's transformative touch. Your past does not disqualify you. As Venerable Stephen Wolemonwu concludes, "Your past is past, put it behind; God’s plan is for a better tomorrow. Come as you are, trust God for His mercy. An encounter with the Lord will make all things right."
Whether you are in a season of flight, exhaustion, or hidden pain, the promise of a divine encounter remains. It is an invitation to healing, purpose, and a renewed heart, available to all who seek Him.
