Genesis 24:14

Now may it happen that the girl to whom I say, 'Please let down your jar that I may drink,' and who responds, 'Drink, and I will water your camels as well'--let her be the one You have appointed for Your servant Isaac. By this I will know that You have shown kindness to my master."

Study Bible

Now may it happen that the girl to whom I say, ‘Please let down your jar that I may drink,’
This phrase reflects the servant's reliance on divine providence. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, hospitality was a significant virtue. Asking for a drink was a common request, but the servant's prayer for a specific response indicates his desire for a clear sign from God. This act of drawing water was labor-intensive, highlighting the servant's need for a woman of both kindness and diligence.

and who responds, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels as well’—
The offer to water camels goes beyond customary hospitality, as camels can drink large amounts of water, making this a considerable task. This response would demonstrate the woman's generosity and willingness to serve, qualities valued in a matriarch. The act of watering camels also symbolizes abundance and provision, echoing themes of God's provision throughout Scripture.

let her be the one You have appointed for Your servant Isaac.
The servant seeks God's guidance in choosing a wife for Isaac, emphasizing the belief in divine sovereignty over human affairs. This reflects the biblical theme of God’s involvement in the covenant lineage, ensuring that Isaac's wife would be part of His divine plan. The concept of divine appointment is seen throughout the Bible, where God chooses individuals for specific purposes, such as David being chosen as king.

By this I will know that You have shown kindness to my master.”
The servant's request for a sign is not just for his own assurance but as a confirmation of God's continued faithfulness to Abraham. The term "kindness" (Hebrew: "chesed") is a covenantal term, often used to describe God's loyal love and faithfulness. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's steadfast love and the fulfillment of His promises, as seen in His covenant with Abraham and his descendants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham's Servant
The unnamed servant, likely Eliezer, is tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. He demonstrates faith and reliance on God through prayer.

2. Rebekah
The young woman who fulfills the servant's prayer by offering water to him and his camels, showing her kindness and suitability as Isaac's wife.

3. Nahor
The city where Abraham's relatives live, and where the servant goes to find a wife for Isaac, ensuring she is from Abraham's kin.

4. The Well
A central location in the account where the servant meets Rebekah, symbolizing provision and divine encounter.

5. Isaac
Abraham's son, for whom the servant is seeking a wife, representing the continuation of God's covenant promise.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The servant's prayer and subsequent actions demonstrate a model of faith that actively seeks God's guidance and confirmation.

Divine Providence
God's hand is evident in orchestrating events to fulfill His promises, reminding believers of His sovereignty in their lives.

Character Matters
Rebekah's willingness to serve beyond what is asked highlights the importance of character and kindness in fulfilling God's purposes.

Prayerful Dependence
The servant's example encourages believers to approach decisions with prayer, seeking God's will and confirmation.

God's Kindness
The account illustrates God's kindness and faithfulness, encouraging believers to trust in His provision and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's approach to finding a wife for Isaac demonstrate faith and reliance on God? How can we apply this in our decision-making processes?

2. In what ways does Rebekah's response to the servant's request reveal her character? How can we cultivate similar qualities in our own lives?

3. How does this passage illustrate the concept of divine providence? Can you think of a time when you experienced God's guidance in a similar way?

4. What role does prayer play in the servant's mission, and how can we incorporate prayer more effectively into our daily lives?

5. How does the account of Rebekah at the well connect with other biblical accounts involving wells? What do these accounts teach us about God's provision and revelation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12
The servant's mission is rooted in God's promise to Abraham to make him a great nation, which requires a suitable wife for Isaac.

Proverbs 3:5-6
The servant's reliance on God for guidance parallels the call to trust in the Lord with all one's heart.

1 Samuel 16
Just as God chose David, not based on outward appearance but on the heart, Rebekah is chosen for her character and actions.

John 4
The encounter at the well with the Samaritan woman echoes themes of divine appointment and revelation.