What can we learn from Rebekah's response about trusting God's plan? Setting the Scene Genesis 24 narrates God’s careful orchestration of Isaac’s marriage. By verse 64, the servant’s long journey is complete, and “Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she dismounted from her camel.” Rebekah’s Immediate Response • She looks up—eyes open to recognize the one God had prepared. • She promptly dismounts—an act of readiness and respect. • In the next verse she veils herself, underscoring humility and purity (v. 65). Lessons on Trusting God’s Plan • Alertness to divine appointments – Rebekah “lifted up her eyes,” echoing Psalm 121:1–2: “I lift up my eyes to the hills… My help comes from the LORD.” – Trust keeps our vision clear, expecting God’s hand in ordinary moments. • Swift obedience without hesitation – Her earlier words, “I will go” (v. 58), move from promise to action when she dismounts. – James 2:22 shows faith made complete by works; Rebekah’s faith produces decisive steps. • Humility before God-given authority – The veil (v. 65) signals submission to God’s order for marriage, paralleling 1 Peter 5:5, “clothe yourselves with humility.” – Trust embraces God’s structure instead of promoting self. • Confidence grounded in covenant faithfulness – The servant had testified, “The LORD has guided me on the journey” (v. 27). Rebekah’s calm response reflects confidence that the same LORD is guiding her. – Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Echoes Elsewhere in Scripture • Abraham (Rebekah’s future father-in-law) left home “not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). Rebekah mirrors that pioneering trust. • Mary of Nazareth answers, “May it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38), another instant “yes” to God’s unexpected plan. • Ruth leaves Moab trusting God’s bigger story (Ruth 1:16-17), later meeting Boaz in a field she “just so happened” to enter (Ruth 2:3). Practical Takeaways for Today • Keep eyes up—cultivate expectancy that God is arranging meetings, opportunities, and solutions. • Step down from the “camel”—act when God opens a door instead of waiting for perfect conditions. • Wear the veil of humility—let modesty and respect mark every new season. • Remember past guidance—rehearse testimonies of God’s faithfulness to quiet fears about the unknown. Closing Thoughts Rebekah’s uncomplicated, trust-filled response turns a dusty road into sacred ground. By lifting her eyes, stepping forward, and covering herself in humility, she shows what it looks like to rest in God’s plan—confident that the Author of each detail will finish the story well. |