How can we apply Laban's welcoming attitude in our daily interactions?

◄ Use Laban's welcoming in daily life? ►

“Come, you blessed of the LORD,” he said. “Why are you standing outside? I have prepared the house and a place for the camels.” (Genesis 24:31)

Laban’s Welcoming Actions

• Warm greeting—calls the traveler “blessed of the LORD.”

• Immediate invitation inside—“Why are you standing outside?”

• Tangible preparation—house ready, space for animals.

• Recognition of the traveler’s worth because of God’s blessing.

Scripture’s Larger Call to Hospitality

• Hebrews 13:2—“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.”

• Romans 12:13—“Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

• 1 Peter 4:9—“Show hospitality to one another without complaining.”

• Matthew 25:35—“I was a stranger and you took Me in.”

• Genesis 18:2-5—Abraham hastens to serve three guests with water, rest, and food.

Why Laban’s Example Still Speaks

• Hospitality reveals trust that God brings people to us for a purpose.

• Preparedness shows honor for guests and obedience to God.

• Blessing others with words and deeds reflects God’s character.

Practical Ways to Mirror Laban Today

• Offer a genuine, affirming greeting—acknowledge people as valuable to God.

• Extend quick, specific invitations: “Come in,” “Join us,” “Sit with me.”

• Plan ahead—keep an extra meal portion, tidy space, or spare blanket ready.

• Meet practical needs: ride to work, childcare, a listening ear, Wi-Fi access.

• Make room for “the camels”—consider the whole person (family members, pets, baggage, schedule).

• Speak blessing: “God brought you here,” “May the Lord refresh you today.”

• Practice consistent hospitality—Sunday lunches, small-group evenings, coffee drop-ins.

• Guard a cheerful heart; avoid resentment over cost or inconvenience (1 Peter 4:9).

• Remember Christ’s words: serving strangers is serving Him (Matthew 25:35-40).

Living the Welcome This Week

Prepare your home, schedule, and heart so the next person God sends finds an open door, a ready place, and words that point to the Lord’s blessing.