Genesis 33:12

• Even though Esau seemed generous, Jacob was cautious and cleverly avoided traveling with him.

• until I come to my lord at Seir: Jacob's lie shows his old habit of using deceit instead of living by faith.

Jacob was scared even though he had no reason to be. He tried to calm his brother by acting like a servant to a king:

• he bowed (33:3),

• used respectful titles (33:8, 13),

• introduced people (33:6–7), and

• gave gifts (33:8).

Jacob had long expected to meet his brother Esau, and the meeting turned out much better than he feared. Esau’s changed heart shows how “God fights” for his people (See 32:28). God works powerfully for his people when they trust him.

Earlier, Esau did not value his birthright (the rights and blessing of the firstborn son; 25:32–34). Now he no longer held on to old anger. Jacob understood that God had stepped in and changed the situation.