Sit All the Way Down: Jacob’s Limp and Our Trust
In this episode, we explore the transformation of Jacob — from grasping to clinging, from scheming to surrendering. Jacob began life grabbing at a heel but ended life leaning on a staff. His limp wasn’t a mark of shame; it was the sign of grace. Through his story, we learn how to stop “halfway sitting” in our faith and finally rest our full weight in God’s promises.
🪞 MIRRORS Breakdown
Moment:
The tension between belief and control — when we say we trust God but still keep a tight grip on the outcome.
Identity:
Jacob’s temperament: ambitious, persistent, strategic — yet anxious and restless. The same drive that once deceived became the determination that refused to let go of God.
Right Choices:
At Jabbok, Jacob wrestled all night and refused to release God’s presence until he was blessed. This was the pivot from manipulation to dependence.
Risks/Wrongs:
His striving fractured relationships and fueled exile. Like Jacob, our need to control often births conflict and exhaustion.
Ongoing Message:
The limp becomes the lesson: God’s blessing flows through surrender, not strength. His faithfulness remains even when ours wavers.
Reflection & Steps:
Name your “halfway in the seat” place.
Trade striving for stillness.
Revisit your Bethel—where God first spoke promise.
Turn your limp into testimony.
Walk toward reconciliation.
Sit all the way down and trust God to carry the rest.
✨ Key Scripture
“Look, I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go… I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” — Genesis 28:15 (CSB)
💬 Takeaway
When you finally stop grasping and start clinging, you’ll find what Jacob found — not defeat, but divine nearness. God doesn’t just bless your victory; He blesses your limp.
🙌 Call to Action
Share this episode with someone who’s in a season of wrestling.
Tag us and tell your “limp story” — how God met you in the place of surrender and turned striving into strength.
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Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com
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