What can we learn about gratitude from the servant's response in Genesis 24:26? The scene of gratitude Genesis 24:26–27: “Then the man bowed down and worshiped the LORD, saying, ‘Blessed be the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not withheld His loving devotion and faithfulness from my master. As for me, the LORD has guided me on the journey to the house of my master’s relatives.’ ” Gratitude springs from recognizing God’s hand • The servant immediately interprets the success of his mission as God’s direct intervention; no credit is taken for personal skill. • Psalm 118:23 echoes this reflex: “This is from the LORD; it is marvelous in our eyes.” • Gratitude begins when we intentionally trace blessings back to their Source. Gratitude expresses itself in worship • “Bowed down and worshiped” shows that thanksgiving is first vertical before it is horizontal. • Psalm 95:6 calls, “Come, let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.” • Real gratitude cannot be silent; it seeks an avenue—song, prayer, testimony—to adore God. Gratitude humbles the heart • Bowing is a physical confession of dependence. • James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” • A grateful person acknowledges: “I am recipient, not originator, of every good gift” (cf. James 1:17). Gratitude remembers God’s covenant love • The servant blesses the LORD for His “loving devotion and faithfulness,” covenant terms recurring throughout Scripture. • Lamentations 3:22–23 reminds us that God’s steadfast love never ceases; gratitude rehearses these truths. • Thanksgiving is rooted in who God is, not merely what He gives. Gratitude testifies to others • By speaking aloud, the servant reinforces Abraham’s faith and points Rebekah’s family to the LORD. • Psalm 107:2: “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so.” • Gratitude is contagious; it evangelizes by showcasing God’s goodness. Living out this gratitude today • Start every accomplishment—big or small—with aloud praise; make worship your first reflex. • Keep a journal of answered prayers to trace God’s fingerprints. • Verbalize God’s faithfulness to family and friends; let gratitude be your testimony. • In all circumstances, “give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). |
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