What is the Significance of Jacob's name?

As many know I have a prison writing ministry. I am trying to get the word of the Father behind bars. One of the men I write to is James Lowery, of which is currently pursuing a degree in theology. I have sent him copies of a couple of posts from this blog and he is interested in helping to spread the word. Obviously he is interested in peoples redemption on the outside just as much as he is on the inside.

I have never met the man in person, but do know that he has the calling from the father, as he possesses the fruit of the spirit as in Galations 5. Although him and I do not agree on everything, we do on most. I do know that he is working to find Yahweh's will for his life as we all are. He has sent me an interesting hand written post and asked if I would post it and I agreed. I would like to share it with you today.
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What is the Significance of Jacob's name? By James Lowery

What is the significance of Jacob's names and how do they relate to the narrative of Genesis and the plan of God? I was recently asked this question and hope you find my answer interesting. The significance of Jacob's names and how they relate to the narrative of Genesis and the plan of God can be summed up in one word-relationship. God desires to have a relationship with mankind and this is one of the reasons mankind was created. The narrative of Genesis shows what happens when one does not have a relationship with God.

Jacob, which means supplanter, heel-grasper, or trickster, tried to go through life without keeping a relationship with God. He used deceit, manipulation, and treachery to achieve his goals. In all that he did he lived up to his name and cost him dearly. Because of his deceit, manipulation, and treatchery he was forced to flee for his life. He went to live with his uncle where he was deceived, manipulated, and tricked for twenty years. Upon his return to Canaan, Jacob wrestled with God (Gen. 32:24) and was forced to face himself. It is here that Jacob's name is changed to Israel, which means Soldier of God, Prince of God, He struggles with God, or God overcomes.

Jacob, now Israel, has learned a valuable lesson. He learned that his struggle in life was not with others, but with God. Through this night of wrestling with God, Jacob, now Israel, came to understand that the true and best blessings result from submission to God's will, not from craftily wrenching it away from one's brother. This is what God wants us to learn. That he wants to bless us, to have a relationship with us, and that the only way this can happen is when we quit struggling with God and submit to his will. By submitting to God we will be blessed and enjoy a wonderful relationship with our creator!

Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section after this post.
I can be reached at the following address:

James Lowery
Osborn Correctional Inst. #185436
P.O. Box 100
Somers, CT 06071
USA