On this occasion, Jacob proved to be the better hunter. However, strong ambition like this can be dangerous. God’s people should desire what God desires, but they must not try to gain these things by human effort (see Zechariah 4:6; Galatians 5:16–17; Ephesians 6:10–12).
The Lord dealt strictly with Jacob to remove his sinful methods. Later, he received the promise not as Jacob the deceiver, but as Israel (which means “God fights”). God fought on his behalf (Genesis 32:28).