What if blessing isn’t something we chase—but something we choose?

In this powerful and deeply honest message, Ps Candice reflects on a painful 2025 and invites us into a better way forward for 2026. Drawing from the life of Jacob in Genesis, she unpacks what it truly means to choose blessing—not by striving, stealing, or forcing outcomes, but by pursuing the presence of God.

This sermon is for anyone who has wrestled with disappointment, grief, unanswered prayers, or uncertainty about the future—and is still daring to believe God has more.

Key Themes

• Choosing blessing in the midst of hardship
• Wrestling with God instead of walking away
• The power of perseverance and transformation
• Identity change before blessing flows
• Pursuing the face of God over the hand of God

Scripture Focus

• Genesis 32:22–31 – Jacob wrestles with God
• Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God”
• Psalm 139:23–24 – “Search me, O God…”
• Jeremiah 29:13 – “You will seek Me and find Me…”

Big Idea

We don’t choose blessing by buying it or stealing it.
We choose blessing by choosing the presence of God.

When we pursue His face, His provision follows.

The Path to Blessing: B.L.E.S.S.

A practical framework for pursuing God’s presence:

B – Be still before God
Create space to encounter Him in the quiet.

L – Listen for His voice
God speaks in everyday moments—learn to recognize His voice.

E – Examine your heart
Invite God to search you, convict you, and lead you into repentance.

S – Surrender your will
Let go of control and choose God’s way over your own.

S – Seek His presence continually
Daily devotion and weekly gathering shape a blessed life.

Memorable Quotes

• “A limp with God is better than no limp without God.”
• “Don’t let go in the middle of the wrestle.”
• “We don’t pursue the hand of God—we pursue the face of God.”
• “When we get the order right, we will be blessed.”

Final Invitation

The starting point of a blessed life is saying yes to Jesus.
Blessing flows from relationship, not performance.

About This Message

This sermon is part of the Choose Well series and was preached at Thrive Church. It’s a call to step into 2026 with faith, honesty, and a renewed commitment to God’s presence.

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Helping people move towards Jesus.

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