“And she made haste, and let down her pitcher from her shoulder, and said, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: so I drank, and she made the camels drink also.”
This verse is part of the account of Abraham’s servant’s journey to find a wife for Isaac. In this chapter, Abraham had instructed his servant to go to his homeland and find a wife from among his relatives for his son Isaac, rather than taking a wife from the Canaanites among whom they lived.
When the servant arrived in Nahor, he prayed to God for a specific sign to identify the woman who would be the chosen bride for Isaac. He requested that the woman who would offer to give him a drink from her pitcher and also water his camels be the one chosen by God. Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel, who was Abraham’s brother, appeared at the well as the servant was praying and fulfilled this sign.
In verse 46, we see Rebekah’s response to the servant’s request. Rebekah not only gave the servant a drink but also offered to water his camels. This was a significant act of hospitality and kindness, as camels can drink a large amount of water. The verse highlights Rebekah’s generous nature and willingness to go above and beyond to serve others.
This passage teaches us several lessons:
Hospitality and kindness: Rebekah’s actions demonstrate the importance of showing hospitality and kindness to others. She willingly provided water not only for the servant but also for his camels, demonstrating her selflessness and generosity.
Faithfulness in prayer: The servant’s prayer for a specific sign was answered by God through Rebekah’s arrival at the well. This serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in answering prayers and guiding us in our decisions.
God’s guidance in relationships: Abraham’s servant sought God’s guidance in finding a suitable wife for Isaac. Through the sign given and Rebekah’s actions, it became clear that God had orchestrated their meeting. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our relationships and decisions, trusting that He will lead us in the right direction.
Going above and beyond: Rebekah’s willingness to provide water for the camels showed her dedication and willingness to go the extra mile. It serves as an example for us to exceed expectations and serve others with a joyful and generous heart.
Overall, Genesis 24:46 showcases the virtue of hospitality, God’s faithfulness in guiding our paths, and the significance of going beyond what is expected to serve others.
