There are six things we note about Jacob's prayer.
1. Jacob's fear of his brother's anger was the prompter of his prayer (Gen 32:11). The cause of Jacob's fear of his brother was his mean conduct towards him; hence he is seen cringing before Esau like a guilty culprit supplicating for mercy; and acting like a coward in that he sends one company in front of the other, and sends a present to appease his brother's anger. Note that any punishment we unrighteously inflict upon others is sure to come back upon our own heads. But for all that the Lord listened to Jacob's cry. What a God of grace with whom we have to do!
2. Jacob's relationship to God is his plea in prayer (Gen 32:9). He pleads his relationship to God in the words, "O God of my father," &c. If we know God as our Father, the right way in speaking to Him is to call Him "Father" (see Jhn 1:12-13; Gal 4:6). But if we have not answered God's prayer (2Cr 5:20), how can we expect Him to answer ours? A father will often grant the request of his child while he refuses the plea of a stranger.
3. God's promise is Jacob's argument in prayer (Gen 32:9-12). Jacob pleads two "I wills" of God. When we can pin our prayers to God's promise, we are sure He will perform His word. Mr. Spurgeon says, "Prayer should be pillared on promises, and pinnacled with praises."
4. Jacob's prayer is mingled with confession (Gen 32:10). All God's servants have ever confessed their unworthiness.
5. Jacob's prayer is perfumed with praise (Gen 32:10). Jacob acknowledges the mercy he had received from God, and gives praise to God. A thankful man is full of blessing, while a thankless man is full of complaint. If we bless God with our praises, He will bless us with His mercies.
6. Jacob's prayer is definite, personal, and answered (Gen 32:11). "Deliver me," Jacob cries, and the sequel shows how graciously God granted his prayer. His prayer was short and to the point, and it brought a speedy answer.