In what ways can we emulate Rebekah's kindness in our daily lives? The Scene at the Well (Genesis 24:46) “She quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder and said, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels also.’ So I drank, and she watered the camels as well.” What Kindness Looked Like Then • Swift response—she “quickly” acted, no hesitation • Voluntary generosity—offered more than asked (water for camels, not just the man) • Practical help—met an immediate, tangible need • Cheerful service—no hint of reluctance or bargaining • Hospitality to a stranger—demonstrated trust in God’s providence Translating Rebekah’s Example to Today • Respond promptly when a need appears; don’t wait to be coaxed • Offer more than the bare minimum—look for the extra mile (Matthew 5:41) • Meet needs in concrete ways: a meal, a ride, a listening ear • Serve with a pleasant spirit; kindness loses power when wrapped in complaint • Extend warmth to newcomers at church, work, or in the neighborhood—“entertaining angels” (Hebrews 13:2) Biblical Echoes of Rebekah’s Spirit • Proverbs 31:20—“She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.” • Galatians 6:10—“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the household of faith.” • Ephesians 4:32—“Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” • 1 Peter 4:9—“Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” Cultivating a Lifestyle of Ready Kindness • Start the day asking, “Whose camels can I water?”—stay alert for God-given moments • Keep “kindness tools” on hand: spare cash, extra grocery gift cards, time margin in your schedule • Practice in small ways—hold doors, send encouraging texts, thank service workers • Teach your household the habit: invite them to join in acts of service • Remember that every act toward others is ultimately rendered to the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24) Rebekah’s swift, abundant kindness at the well still speaks: notice needs, move quickly, give generously, and let each act point others to the gracious God we serve. |
    |