Wresting for Your God Given Name

by Matthew James Elliott, Nate Allen

Although born to this earth with a name that meant "Trickster" and a fitting reputation to follow, Jacob's God-given name was Israel. Join us as we walk you through twelve defining chapters in Jacob's life. Each one has a message of encouragement for you in your ministry, as you witness that struggle and pain are all part of Wrestling for Your God Given Name.
Wrestling for Your God Given Name is a project that we hope will be a resource of encouragement for Pastors. Inspired by the Old Testament character Jacob, the writers of this project are creating specific content that will relate to those that are serving in ministry. They are combining the historical aspect of Jacobs's story with what we can learn from the journey he endured along the way.


Just as Jacob had his ups and downs in life, we too have struggles that we must endure in our Journeys with God. Each of us has a God-given name that God has set aside for us, for Jacob it was Israel. For Saul of Tarsus, it was Paul the Apostle. For Simon the fisherman, it was Peter the Rock. The question remains how do we find that name.


This work is meant as a love letter to those in ministry. Though it will question your position, question your motive, and even possibly discourage you, in the beginning, let me assure you that every word is written with encouragement being our primary aim. I believe encouragement comes in many forms, some make us smile, some make us cry, but all are instruments God uses to mold us to reflect the beautiful image of His Son further.


In this little book, we hope to give you some answers. So Join us as we seek out our God-given names and together who knows what we may find.

Unknown Binding

About the author

Meet Matthew James Elliott (M.J. Elliott), an award-winning, dedicated writer with a strong passion for spreading the word of Christ. Matthew has spent 15 years serving in different types of ministries, both as a volunteer and a minister of the Gospel. Although he was never ordained, his experiences have given him a deep understanding of what ministry is all about and how it has evolved over time. His degree in Biblical Studies is from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and emphasizes Pastoral Care, Christian Education, and Worship.

Matthew is happily married to Traci and they have three delightful children: Leyla, Caleb, and Hannah, who bring them immense joy and inspiration. Matthew's books aspire to minister to believers with love, equip them for service in God's glory, and nurture the body of Christ with edification through His work. He hopes that all who read his content will feel the loving touch of God's encouragement and guidance.