Genesis 32:1  “…the angels of God met him”
Doesn’t say if this was in a vision or dream or if Jacob saw the angels and they looked like the ones he had seen in his vision at Bethel years earlier.  Perhaps this was a reminder that God would keep His promises to him.

3  “…Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau…”
Pre-emptive measure to try and find out Esau’s state of mind regarding Jacob.  He also hoped to ease any tension by announcing his arrival.

6  “…four hundred men are with him”
Not what Jacob wanted to hear.  No explanation is given regarding the four hundred men, but Jacob assumes the worst.

11  “Deliver me, I pray, from the hand of my brother…”
Jacob knew where to turn when he realizes he has no options of his own.  He claims God’s promise which was given to Abraham and Isaac.

20  “…I will appease him with the present…”
Pretty slick idea.  God had greatly blessed Jacob for him to be able to provide such great numbers of animals.  Sending them a group at a time would cause them to overwhelm Esau as he came upon each.  Gift after gift should appease any hostility.

22  “…the ford of Jabbok”
Tributary of the Jordan on the east side.  North of Jerusalem and to the east.

24  “…a Man wrestled with him…”
Jacob is finally alone then God or His representative shows up.  Interesting that He chose to wrestle with Jacob.  Could have easily overcome him, but perhaps was getting Jacob to give his all in the fight.  Jacob had been assured of God’s promise and presence.  Would he give up at the appearance of conflict or stick with God?

28  “…Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel…”
What needed to be accomplished.  Jacob fought and didn’t give up.  He was given a new name showing the change from his former deceitful self to the one whom God could bless, one who trusted Him.

29  “…Why is it that you ask about My name…”
He may have won the fight, so to speak, but he wasn’t greater than his adversary.  And he was given a physical infirmity to keep his pride at bay and to remind him of the encounter.

30  “…I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved”
He understood the significance.  He received a blessing, but it was given to him, he didn’t overcome anyone to win it or earn it.

I hope you enjoy reading and studying His word.  May it accomplish what He desires.  Please feel free to comment or post questions.  Thanks for reading!

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.