What can we learn from Rebekah's actions about hospitality and kindness? Setting the Scene in Genesis 24 Genesis 24 recounts Abraham’s servant seeking a wife for Isaac. Stopping at the well outside Nahor, he prays for a sign: the right woman will offer him water and also draw for his camels. Scripture records Rebekah’s response: “After she had given him a drink, she said, ‘I will draw water for your camels as well, until they have had enough to drink.’” (Genesis 24:19) Ten thirsty camels could require hundreds of gallons—an arduous, time-consuming task. Rebekah’s actions were spontaneous, voluntary, and lavish. Rebekah’s Heart Revealed in One Sentence • “I will draw water for your camels as well” shows initiative—she meets an unspoken need. • “Until they have had enough to drink” shows completeness—she keeps serving until the job is fully done. • No bargaining, no hesitation, no expectation of reward—only cheerful service. Hospitality Lessons We Can Apply • Hospitality starts with seeing people (Genesis 18:1-8; Romans 12:13). Rebekah notices a stranger’s thirst and acts. • True hospitality costs something—time, strength, resources (1 Peter 4:9). Rebekah invests all three. • God often works through hospitable moments (Hebrews 13:2). Rebekah’s welcome becomes the hinge of redemptive history, bringing her into the covenant line of Messiah. Kindness Lessons We Can Apply • Kindness meets real, practical needs (James 2:15-16). Rebekah doesn’t offer polite words; she hauls water. • Kindness goes beyond the bare minimum (Matthew 5:41). She satisfies every camel, not just the man. • Kindness flows from character shaped by God (Proverbs 31:20). Her ready generosity mirrors the Lord’s own heart (Psalm 145:16). Why Her Example Still Matters • Scripture is historically accurate; Rebekah literally lifted jar after jar. That concrete obedience assures us our everyday acts can likewise serve God’s larger purposes. • Her unnamed service preceded her great calling. Faithfulness in small tasks often positions us for bigger assignments (Luke 16:10). • She shows that single individuals can profoundly bless families and nations through simple, Spirit-led kindness. Practical Takeaways for Today • Look up from your routine; ask, “Who is standing at my ‘well’ right now?” • Offer more than requested—add the “camels” to your service. • Finish the task; aim for “until they have had enough.” • Trust that God weaves eternal impact through ordinary hospitality and kindness, just as He did through Rebekah at the well. |
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