Genesis 24:25

Then she added, "We have plenty of straw and feed, as well as a place for you to spend the night."

Study Bible

Then she added
This phrase indicates a continuation of a conversation, suggesting hospitality and generosity. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, hospitality was a highly valued virtue. Rebekah's willingness to offer more information and assistance reflects the customs of her time, where welcoming strangers was a moral obligation.

“We have plenty of straw and feed
Straw and feed were essential for the care of animals, particularly camels, which were the primary mode of transportation for long journeys. This detail highlights the wealth and preparedness of Rebekah's family, as they had ample resources to care for their livestock and guests. It also underscores the importance of animals in the patriarchal narratives, as they were vital for travel and trade.

as well as a place for you to spend the night.”
Offering a place to stay was a significant gesture of hospitality, ensuring the safety and comfort of travelers. This act of kindness is reminiscent of other biblical instances where hospitality is shown to strangers, such as Abraham's reception of the three visitors in Genesis 18. It also foreshadows the New Testament teachings on hospitality, as seen in Hebrews 13:2, which encourages believers to show hospitality to strangers. Rebekah's actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers rest and refuge to those who come to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman of great hospitality and kindness, who is the daughter of Bethuel and the granddaughter of Nahor, Abraham's brother. Her actions in this chapter are pivotal in the unfolding of God's plan for Isaac.

2. Abraham's Servant
Likely Eliezer of Damascus, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. His journey and actions are guided by prayer and divine providence.

3. Nahor's City
The place where Abraham's servant encounters Rebekah. It is significant as the home of Abraham's relatives, ensuring that Isaac's wife would come from his own kin.

4. Hospitality
A central theme in this passage, reflecting the cultural and spiritual importance of welcoming strangers and providing for their needs.

5. Divine Providence
The unfolding events demonstrate God's hand in guiding the servant to Rebekah, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Hospitality is a reflection of God's love and provision. Rebekah's willingness to provide for the servant and his camels demonstrates a heart aligned with God's values.

God's Guidance in Our Decisions
Just as God guided Abraham's servant to Rebekah, He guides us in our decisions when we seek His will through prayer and faith.

Faithfulness in Small Acts
Rebekah's simple act of kindness had significant implications for God's plan. Our small acts of faithfulness can have a profound impact.

Trust in God's Timing
The meeting between Rebekah and the servant was divinely orchestrated. Trusting in God's timing is crucial in our walk of faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's hospitality reflect the character traits that God values in His people?

2. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in our daily decisions, as Abraham's servant did?

3. How can we practice hospitality in our own lives, and what impact might it have on those around us?

4. What are some small acts of faithfulness we can commit to that might have a larger impact on God's kingdom?

5. How can we learn to trust in God's timing, especially when our plans seem uncertain or delayed?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18
Abraham's hospitality to the three visitors is mirrored in Rebekah's actions, highlighting the importance of welcoming strangers.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, echoing the hospitality shown by Rebekah.

Proverbs 31:20
The description of a virtuous woman who extends her hand to the needy, paralleling Rebekah's generous spirit.