Nay, I pray thee, &c.— Houbigant translates this verse, "Not so, I pray thee. If I am in any favour with thee, thou wilt receive this present at my hand, (for I have seen thy face, as if I had seen the face of God,) and thou wilt accept me;" i.e.. thou wilt receive my present as a token of my love, as a proof of reconciliation and friendship; for I am happy in the assurance of it, having met thee propitious to me, and well inclined, as God himself is to those who address him; and I have such pleasure in this meeting, as a sincere soul finds in obtaining from God himself tokens of his love and favour. Thus Esther says to king Ahasuerus, "I saw thee, my lord, as an angel of God, and my heart was troubled for fear of thy majesty; for wonderful art thou, O Lord, and thy countenance is full of grace." Apoc. Esther 5:12-13. But I fear there is a degree of flattery in all this which is unworthy the saints of the Most High; though some allowance perhaps must be made for the eastern manner of speaking.
REFLECTIONS.—At last the danger approaches, and now he finds indeed that God will take care of him in his perilous situation. Note; Those who have confidence in God, may cheerfully wait the issue of every trial. Observe,
1. Jacob's order of march. If flight should be needful, the most beloved were hindmost and likeliest to escape.
2. His approach to Esau, full of deep respect to him as his superior. He mentions nothing of the birth-right, but pays the duty he owed to him as an elder brother. Note; (1.) It is wise to keep out of view whatever would open old sores. (2.) A submissive conduct, which notwithstanding should be within the bounds of reason, mollifies offended pride.
The unexpected reception he met with. Note; God hath the hearts of all men in his hands. How often, through God's blessing, do we find the issue of our trials much better than our fears suggested? Instead of fierce wrath, kisses of kindness; and for drops of blood in anger, tears of joy mingle on their cheeks! Happy meeting! May every difference among brethren be thus accommodated!
Nothing but friendship now breathed in Esau's discourse. His inquiries are as kind, as Jacob's answers are respectful. He inquires,
1. Regarding his children. They are, says Jacob, the children which God hath graciously given thy servant. Note; A good man, when he speaks of ordinary things, may be known by the constant remembrance he hath of God.
2. Regarding the droves of cattle. They are a present for his lord Esau. Esau pleads his abundance; he has enough. Jacob presses his acceptance, as a thankful acknowledgment of his favourable countenance towards him, which he esteems the greatest blessing next to the Divine regard. Esau acquiesces; and thus their friendship is cemented. Note; (1.) When a man has enough of his own, he ought civilly to refuse needless obligations. (2.) A Christian's heart, like Jacob's, is ever open and generous. (3.) Whatever we gain in the world, we should always remember that it is the blessing of the Lord which maketh rich. (4.) We are to take care that the pride of not being obliged, does not make us slight the favours of our friends.