What can we learn from Rebekah's actions about serving others selflessly? Setting the Scene Genesis 24 records Abraham’s servant praying for clear direction in finding a wife for Isaac. As soon as he finishes praying, Rebekah arrives. Verse 18 captures her first words and actions: “ ‘Drink, my lord,’ she replied, and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands and gave him a drink.” In that single sentence, Scripture presents a model of self-forgetting service. Rebekah’s Quick Response: A Picture of Willingness • “Quickly”—she did not hesitate or weigh the inconvenience. • “Lowered her jar”—she assumed the posture of a helper. • “My lord”—she addressed a stranger with honor, reflecting humility (cf. Philippians 2:3). Going the Extra Mile Although verse 18 highlights the drink for the servant, verses 19-20 reveal that she drew water for ten camels—a strenuous task. Her service was: • Voluntary: no one pressured her. • Generous: she supplied what was needed, not merely what was asked (Matthew 5:41). • Tireless: “she ran back to the well to draw water” (v. 20). The Heart Behind the Hands Scripture consistently links outward service to inward character: • Love: “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14) • Kindness: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers.” (Hebrews 13:2) • Faith expressed through works: “Faith without works is dead.” (James 2:17). Rebekah’s faith in the living God (v. 31) flowed into practical action. Lessons for Daily Life – Serve promptly: meet needs in the moment instead of postponing. – Serve thoroughly: finish the task even when it expands. – Serve humbly: treat every person as worthy of honor. – Serve cheerfully: the narrative’s tone shows eagerness, not duty-bound drudgery (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:7). Echoes in the Rest of Scripture • Abigail’s swift provisions for David (1 Samuel 25) mirror Rebekah’s quick generosity. • The Samaritan’s compassion—binding wounds, paying the innkeeper (Luke 10:33-35)—reflects going beyond minimum help. • Dorcas “was always doing good and helping the poor” (Acts 9:36), another portrait of active, hands-on love. Christ, the Ultimate Servant Rebekah’s actions foreshadow the greater Servant: • “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” (Matthew 20:28) • Jesus “rose from supper… and began to wash the disciples’ feet.” (John 13:4-5) Self-giving service is woven into the gospel itself; we are redeemed to follow His example (1 Peter 2:21). Putting It Into Practice Today 1. Keep eyes open for ordinary opportunities—watering camels looks like refilling coffee, running errands, or volunteering unseen. 2. Act immediately when the Spirit nudges, trusting God to handle your schedule. 3. Offer more than requested—add encouragement, time, or resources that exceed expectations. 4. Remember who you represent; every cup of water given “in My name” matters to Christ (Mark 9:41). |
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