Genesis 24:44

and she replies, 'Drink, and I will draw water for your camels as well,' may she be the woman the LORD has appointed for my master's son.

Study Bible

and she replies, ‘Drink, and I will draw water for your camels as well,’
This phrase highlights the servant's prayer for a sign of divine guidance. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, offering water to a stranger was a common act of hospitality, but watering camels was an extraordinary gesture due to the significant effort involved. Camels can drink large amounts of water, and this task would require considerable time and strength. This act of kindness and service is a test of character, reflecting the servant's desire for a woman of generosity and diligence. The servant's request for this specific sign demonstrates his reliance on God's providence and guidance in fulfilling his mission.

may she be the woman the LORD has appointed for my master’s son.
This phrase underscores the belief in divine sovereignty and predestination. The servant seeks confirmation that the woman who fulfills this sign is the one chosen by God for Isaac, Abraham's son. This reflects the biblical theme of God's active role in the lives of His people, orchestrating events according to His will. The concept of divine appointment is seen throughout Scripture, where God selects individuals for specific purposes, such as David being chosen as king (1 Samuel 16:12) or Jeremiah being appointed as a prophet (Jeremiah 1:5). This also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of Christ as the chosen one, fulfilling God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch who sends his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac.

2. Isaac
Abraham's son, for whom the servant is seeking a wife.

3. Rebekah
The woman who fulfills the servant's prayer by offering water to him and his camels.

4. The Servant
Likely Eliezer, Abraham's trusted servant, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac.

5. Nahor
The city where the servant goes to find a wife for Isaac, located in Mesopotamia.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance
Trust in God's providence and timing when seeking direction in life.

Like the servant, we should pray specifically and expectantly for God's guidance.

Character and Service
Rebekah's willingness to serve is a model of hospitality and kindness.

Our actions and willingness to serve others can be a testament to our character.

Faith in Action
The servant's faith is demonstrated through his actions and reliance on God.

We should act in faith, trusting that God will fulfill His promises.

God's Sovereignty
God orchestrates events and relationships according to His will.

Recognize and submit to God's sovereignty in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's prayer in Genesis 24:12-14 demonstrate his faith and reliance on God? How can we apply this in our own prayer life?

2. In what ways does Rebekah's response to the servant's request reveal her character? How can we cultivate a similar spirit of service and hospitality?

3. How does the account of Rebekah at the well connect with Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4? What lessons can we learn about divine appointments?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty in our relationships and life decisions? How can we better trust His plan for us?

5. How can we apply the principle of seeking God's guidance in our daily decisions, as demonstrated by the servant's actions in this chapter?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-14
The servant's prayer for guidance, showing his reliance on God to reveal the right woman.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord for guidance, similar to the servant's reliance on God.

1 Samuel 16:7
God's ability to see the heart, as He appoints Rebekah based on her character and actions.

John 4:7-10
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting themes of service and divine appointments.