Genesis 24:26

Then the man bowed down and worshiped the LORD,

Study Bible

Then the man
The "man" referred to here is Abraham's servant, traditionally understood to be Eliezer of Damascus, though not named in this chapter. He was tasked with finding a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son. This reflects the trust and responsibility placed upon him, highlighting the importance of servanthood and faithfulness in fulfilling God's purposes.

bowed down
Bowing down is a physical act of reverence and submission, common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. It signifies humility and acknowledgment of a higher authority. This act demonstrates the servant's recognition of God's sovereignty and his gratitude for divine guidance in his mission.

and worshiped
Worship here involves both an attitude of the heart and an outward expression. It is a response to God's faithfulness and provision. Worship in the Old Testament often included prayer, sacrifice, and thanksgiving, reflecting a deep relationship with God. This act of worship underscores the servant's acknowledgment of God's active role in the events unfolding.

the LORD
The use of "the LORD" (YHWH) indicates the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with Abraham and his descendants. This name is associated with God's promises and faithfulness. The servant's worship of the LORD connects this event to the broader narrative of God's covenantal faithfulness, as seen throughout the patriarchal stories and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the mediator of a new covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Servant
The unnamed servant of Abraham, traditionally understood to be Eliezer of Damascus, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac.

2. Abraham
The patriarch who sends his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac from his own relatives.

3. Rebekah
The woman chosen by God to be Isaac's wife, fulfilling the servant's prayer for guidance.

4. Nahor's City
The place where the servant encounters Rebekah, significant as the home of Abraham's relatives.

5. The Well
The location where the servant meets Rebekah, a common gathering place and a setting for divine encounters in the Bible.

Teaching Points

Worship as a Response to God's Guidance
The servant's immediate response to God's clear guidance was worship. This teaches us the importance of acknowledging and praising God when He answers our prayers and directs our paths.

The Role of Prayer in Decision-Making
The servant's journey was marked by prayer, demonstrating the necessity of seeking God's will in our decisions. We should emulate this by praying for guidance in our own lives.

Faithfulness in Service
The servant's dedication to his master's mission reflects the faithfulness expected of us in our service to God and others. We should strive to fulfill our responsibilities with integrity and devotion.

Recognizing God's Sovereignty
The servant's worship highlights his recognition of God's sovereignty in orchestrating events. We are reminded to trust in God's control over our circumstances.

Gratitude for God's Provision
The servant's act of worship was also an expression of gratitude. We should cultivate a heart of thankfulness for God's provision and care in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's response to God's guidance in Genesis 24:26 inspire you to incorporate worship into your daily life?

2. In what ways can you apply the servant's example of prayerful decision-making to a current situation you are facing?

3. How does the servant's faithfulness to Abraham's mission challenge you to be more faithful in your own responsibilities?

4. What are some practical ways you can acknowledge God's sovereignty in your life, especially when things don't go as planned?

5. How can you cultivate a habit of gratitude similar to the servant's response, and what impact might this have on your relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-14
The servant's prayer for guidance and a sign from God, showing his reliance on divine providence.

Genesis 24:48
The servant's later recounting of his worship and gratitude, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's guidance.

Psalm 95:6
A call to worship and bow down before the Lord, paralleling the servant's act of worship.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord for guidance, as exemplified by the servant's actions.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encouragement to present requests to God with thanksgiving, similar to the servant's prayer and worship.