Focal passage: Genesis 24:1-17
How fitting that we are in the midst of a season that is designated for giving thanks when we close this series on the story of Abraham. We have much to be thankful for in how God has provided so abundantly in our lives and in the lives of those who have gone before us in faith.
How He has provided for the needs of His people in a way that is consistent with His eternal plan. We see this displayed in the beautiful (and romantic) unfolding of how He brings Rebekah to Isaac in Genesis 24. First, there is an assignment given by Abraham to a trusted servant: “the oldest of the household, who had charge of all that he had” (v. 2). He tells his servant to return to his homeland and find a wife for Isaac. He desires for his son to have a bride from his kindred, and not from the daughters of the Canaanites (vv. 3-4).
Abraham confidently declares that God will direct his servant to the right woman. The servant is obedient to his master’s directions and makes the long journey back to the land of Abraham’s relatives. Upon his arrival, he prays and asks God to bring the one whom He has appointed for Isaac. As a sign, the servant asks for a woman who will not only provide water for him to drink, but also for his camels as well. By this, he will know that the Lord has shown steadfast love to Abraham (v. 14).
Scripture records that “before he had finished speaking,” Rebekah appears (v. 15). God answered the servant’s prayer immediately with her arrival at the well. Although Rebekah was described as “very attractive in appearance,” the servant observes her first to test her character before he reveals his assignment. Later in the chapter, we witness the servant sharing the story of God’s provision to Rebekah and her family as well as to Isaac, giving God the glory for His providence. How will you testify to the faithful provision of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?