Less Than The Least – Genesis 32:3-12
Unlike those who think highly of themselves, Jacob knew that he had been ruined by sin (Genesis 32:10). He thought himself a man unworthy of God's grace. He had cheated his brother Esau out of his birthright, and his brother hated him for it. Now, years later, Jacob was going to face Esau again.
How odd to see those phrases side by side: I am unworthy of Your mercies . . . . Deliver me! Yet Jacob could pray for mercy because his hope lay not in his own worth, buy in God's promise to look with favor on those who throw themselves at His feet.
Humility and contrition are the keys that open the heart of God. Someone has said that the best disposition for praying is being stripped of everything. It is crying out of the depths. It comes from the soul that knows its deep depravity.
Such prayers are offered by those who are thoroughly convicted of their sin and shame, but, at the same time, are convinced of God's grace that goes out to undeserving sinners. God hears best those who cry out: "God, be merciful to me a sinner!" (Luke 18:13).