What can we learn about humility from the servant's request in Genesis 24:17? Setting the Scene “Then the servant ran to meet her and said, ‘Please let me drink a little water from your jar.’ ” (Genesis 24:17) Abraham’s senior servant has been sent to Mesopotamia to find a wife for Isaac. He has just prayed for a clear, God–given sign (vv. 12-14). When Rebekah appears and meets the exact conditions of that prayer, the servant’s first move is not a grand speech but a simple, respectful request for a drink. Humility Seen in the Servant’s Words • He approaches Rebekah as a needy stranger, not as an entitled emissary. • He asks, “Please,” showing courtesy instead of command. • He seeks “a little water,” reflecting modest expectation rather than excess. • He speaks first, but he lets Rebekah choose to respond; he does not coerce. • He runs to meet her—indicative of eagerness to serve God’s plan, not his own comfort. Key Lessons on Humility • Godly confidence and personal humility fit together. The servant has assurance of mission yet expresses genuine dependence on another person. • Humility begins with recognizing one’s limitations; even those on divine errands still need a drink. • Courtesy often reveals humility more than dramatic acts. A polite request can testify to a yielded heart. • True humility does not diminish assignment; it enhances it. The servant’s lowliness positions him to witness God’s exact answer to prayer (vv. 26-27). • Humility invites partnership. By requesting instead of demanding, the servant draws Rebekah into the unfolding promise. Scripture Echoes • Proverbs 3:34: “He mocks the mockers but gives grace to the humble.” • James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” • Philippians 2:3-4: “In humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • 1 Peter 5:5: “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” • Luke 14:11: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Jesus, the Greater Servant • John 4:7 parallels Genesis 24:17: “Jesus said to her, ‘Give Me a drink.’ ” Christ, Lord of all, chose the posture of requester, modeling ultimate humility. • Matthew 20:28: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” Abraham’s servant prefigures the humility perfected in Jesus. Putting Humility into Practice Today • Begin conversations with genuine courtesy—“please,” “thank you,” and open-ended requests. • Admit everyday needs; asking for help is not weakness but an avenue for God’s provision. • Approach tasks God assigns—ministry, family, work—without entitlement. • Invite others into God’s story rather than dictating their role. • Keep prayers specific yet surrendered, as the servant did (vv. 12-14), ready to worship when God answers (vv. 26-27). |
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