A wrestling spirit of prayer is a demonstration of an Israel of God;
this Jacob had, this he made use of, and by this he obtained the
name of Israel. A wrestling spirit of prayer in straits,
difficulties, and distresses--a wrestling spirit of prayer when
alone, in private, in the night, when no eye seeth but God's, then
to be at it, then to lay hold of God, then to wrestle, to hold fast,
and not to give over until the blessing is obtained, is a sign of
one that is an Israel of God.
As this word, "LET Israel hope in the Lord," is sometimes equivalent
to a command, so it is expressed sometimes also to show a grant,
leave, or license to do a thing, such are these that follow: "Let us
come boldly to the throne of grace; let us draw near with a true
heart; let us hold fast the profession of our faith without
wavering." Understand the word thus, and it shows you how muddy how
dark those of Israel are, and how little they are acquainted with
the goodness of their God who stand shrinking at his door like
beggars, and dare not in a godly sort be bold with his mercy.
Wherefore standest thou thus with thy ifs and thy O-buts, O thou
poor benighted Israelite? Wherefore puttest thou thy hand in thy
bosom, as being afraid to touch the hem of the garment of thy Lord?