Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionEliezer, the servant of Abraham, is a notable figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of private prayer. His account is primarily found in Genesis 24, where he is tasked with finding a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son. Eliezer's reliance on prayer and divine guidance serves as a profound example of faith and trust in God's providence. Biblical Account In Genesis 24, Abraham commissions his servant Eliezer to find a suitable wife for Isaac from among his relatives in Mesopotamia. Eliezer's journey is marked by a significant moment of private prayer, demonstrating his dependence on God for success in his mission. Upon reaching the city of Nahor, Eliezer prays: "O LORD, God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham." (Genesis 24:12) This prayer is a model of humility and faith, as Eliezer seeks God's intervention in a matter of great importance to his master and the future of the Abrahamic covenant. Elements of Eliezer's Prayer 1. Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty: Eliezer begins his prayer by addressing the LORD as the God of his master Abraham, recognizing God's authority and covenant relationship with Abraham. 2. Request for Success: He explicitly asks for success in his endeavor, understanding that the outcome is ultimately in God's hands. 3. Desire for Kindness: Eliezer appeals to God's kindness, not only for his own sake but for the sake of Abraham, highlighting the servant's loyalty and concern for his master's wishes. 4. Specificity in Petition: Eliezer's prayer is specific, asking for a sign to identify the right woman for Isaac. He requests that the woman who offers water to him and his camels be the one chosen by God for Isaac (Genesis 24:14). God's Response God answers Eliezer's prayer almost immediately. Rebekah, the granddaughter of Abraham's brother Nahor, appears and fulfills the exact conditions Eliezer had prayed for. This swift and precise answer to prayer underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance in private prayer and trusting in His timing and provision. Significance in Private Prayer Eliezer's example illustrates several key principles of private prayer: · Faith and Dependence: Eliezer's prayer reflects a deep faith in God's ability to guide and provide. His dependence on God is evident in his willingness to seek divine intervention for success. · Alignment with God's Will: By praying for God's kindness and success in fulfilling Abraham's wishes, Eliezer aligns his desires with God's covenant promises to Abraham. · Immediate and Specific Requests: Eliezer's prayer is both immediate and specific, demonstrating that God is attentive to the details of our lives and willing to respond to our needs. · Gratitude and Worship: After God answers his prayer, Eliezer responds with worship and gratitude, acknowledging God's faithfulness and provision (Genesis 24:26-27). Conclusion Eliezer's private prayer in Genesis 24 serves as a timeless example of how believers can approach God with faith, specificity, and a heart aligned with His will. His account encourages Christians to trust in God's guidance and to seek His intervention in all aspects of life, knowing that He is both willing and able to provide for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 24:12And he said O LORD God of my master Abraham, I pray you, send me good speed this day, and show kindness to my master Abraham. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Index i. Of Subjects The Synagogue at Nazareth - Synagogue-Worship and Arrangements. Against Rash and Vain Swearing. In Death and after Death Traditionalism, Its Origin, Character, and Literature - the ... New Teaching in Parables' - the Parables to the People by the Lake ... Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources Questions about Prayer (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the purpose of prayer? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer circle? | GotQuestions.org Prayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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