Hebrews I am less than all thy mercies:, etc.
Observe the sweet order of the Patriarch's prayer. First, he calls upon God, as his Covenant God, engaged to him by word, and oath, and promises. Genesis 17:1-7. Secondly. He reminds God, that where he now is, in the troubles with which he is surrounded, he is in the path of duty, by the Lord's own appointment. Genesis 31:3-13. Reader! do not forget that we may always rely upon the Lord's aid, when we are in the Lord's way. That promise is absolute: Proverbs 3:6. Thirdly, Jacob acknowledgeth his utter unworthiness of receiving the blessing, in the very moment he asketh it. Oh! it is true grace in exercise, to lie low in the dust before God; and while imploring favor, to know that we merit wrath. Genesis 18:27. Fourthly. The mercy asked, is the Covenant mercy promised, namely, deliverance from the oppressor. Here a soul finds sure ground to tread upon. Psalms 12:5. Lastly. Jacob strengthens the whole, by reminding God of what God had reminded him, Thou saidst, I will surely do thee good. Genesis 28:13-15. We never can pray better than in telling God what he hath told us. And when we offer all by the Spirit's influence, through the righteousness of the Lord Jesus, on the Covenant faithfulness of God our Father, what is there that we can ask believing which we shall not receive? Reader! make this whole subject spiritual; and beg of God the Holy Ghost to make it personal, as it may suit your own circumstances, and it will be a sweet scripture indeed. Romans 8:32; Psalms 119:49.