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25 “I am not worthy of the least of all the loving kindnesses,”

 Genesis 32:10

 Jacob lived in fear of his brother and on his return to the land of promise he petitions the Lord to protect him and all his family which he brought with him. He recognizes who God is and that the promise that has been made is valid. He recognizes his own inadequacy to keep himself and therefore reminds God of the promise made to him when he worked for his uncle Laban.

 Jacob accurately recognizes his position before God that he is unworthy and so very undeserving of the mercy of the Lord. This should also be our position as we come before God with our petitions. We cannot come lightly and thoughtlessly, but in remembrance of who God is and what he requires of us. We come in deep repentance and faith to remind Him of His eternal promises that keep us safe and cover all our sin.

 Even if we have been a Christian for a long time, we come constantly in a state of repentance and faith, for we must always recognize our position before a holy God. This God is full of mercy and lovingkindness and will freely forgive all who repent.

“The Lord appeared of old to me, saying, “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love. Therefore I have drawn you with loving kindness.”

 Jeremiah 31:3

 Let us lay hold of this lovingkindness and magnify our God.