Genesis 32:4 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes

He calls Esau his lord, himself his servant, to intimate that he did not insist upon the prerogatives of the birth — right and blessing he had obtained for himself, but left it to God to fulfil his own purpose in his seed. He gives him a short account of himself, that he was not a fugitive and a vagabond, but though long absent had dwelt with his own relations. I have sojourned with Laban, and staid there till now: and that he was not a beggar, nor likely to be a charge to his relations; no, I have oxen and asses — This he knew would (if any thing) recommend him to Esau's good affection. And, he courts his favour; I have sent that I may find grace in thy sight — It is no disparagement to those that have the better cause to become petitioners for reconciliation, and to sue for peace as well as right.