Genesis 24:56

But he replied, "Do not delay me, since the LORD has made my journey a success. Send me on my way so that I may go to my master."

Study Bible

But he replied
This phrase introduces the response of Abraham's servant, who is on a mission to find a wife for Isaac. The Hebrew root for "replied" is עָנָה (anah), which often implies a thoughtful or considered response. In the context of Genesis 24, the servant's reply is not just a casual answer but a reflection of his dedication to fulfilling his master's wishes. This highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness in carrying out God's plans, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible.

Do not delay me
The servant's request not to be delayed underscores the urgency and importance of his mission. The Hebrew word for "delay" is עָכַב (achav), which can mean to hinder or restrain. This reflects the servant's understanding of the divine timing involved in his task. In a broader scriptural context, it reminds believers of the importance of acting promptly when following God's guidance, as delays can sometimes hinder the fulfillment of His purposes.

now that the LORD has granted success to my journey
This phrase acknowledges God's providence and blessing over the servant's mission. The Hebrew word for "granted success" is צָלַח (tsalach), which conveys the idea of prospering or making progress. The servant recognizes that his successful journey is not due to his own abilities but to the LORD's intervention. This acknowledgment of divine sovereignty is a central tenet of the Christian faith, emphasizing that all achievements are ultimately due to God's grace and favor.

Send me on my way
Here, the servant requests to continue his journey. The Hebrew verb שָׁלַח (shalach) means to send forth or release. This reflects the servant's eagerness to complete his mission and return to his master with the bride for Isaac. It serves as a reminder of the Christian call to be sent out into the world to fulfill God's purposes, echoing the Great Commission in the New Testament.

so that I may go to my master
The phrase "go to my master" indicates the servant's desire to return to Abraham with the task completed. The Hebrew word for "master" is אָדוֹן (adon), which signifies lord or ruler. This reflects the servant's loyalty and commitment to Abraham, paralleling the believer's relationship with God as their ultimate Master. It underscores the importance of completing the tasks God assigns to us and returning to Him with the fruits of our labor.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
- The patriarch of the Israelites, who sends his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac.

2. Isaac
- Abraham's son, for whom a wife is being sought.

3. Rebekah
- The woman chosen to be Isaac's wife, demonstrating God's providence.

4. Abraham's Servant
- Likely Eliezer, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac, demonstrating faithfulness and obedience.

5. Laban and Bethuel
- Rebekah's brother and father, who initially agree to the marriage but wish to delay her departure.

Teaching Points

Prompt Obedience
The servant's insistence on not delaying ("Do not delay me, now that the LORD has granted success to my journey") highlights the importance of acting promptly when God's will is clear.

Trust in God's Timing
The account encourages believers to trust in God's perfect timing, as the servant does not want to delay the fulfillment of God's plan.

Faithful Stewardship
The servant exemplifies faithful stewardship by fulfilling his master's command with diligence and integrity.

God's Providential Guidance
The account illustrates how God orchestrates events to fulfill His promises, encouraging believers to seek His guidance in their own lives.

Commitment to God's Plan
Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and follow God's plan for her life is a model of commitment and faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's response in Genesis 24:56 demonstrate his faith and trust in God's plan, and how can we apply this in our own decision-making processes?

2. In what ways does the account of Rebekah's willingness to leave her family parallel other biblical accounts of faith and obedience, such as Ruth's account?

3. How can we discern when God is calling us to act promptly, and what steps can we take to ensure we are ready to respond?

4. What role does prayer and seeking God's guidance play in the servant's journey, and how can we incorporate similar practices in our daily lives?

5. How does the concept of stewardship manifest in the actions of Abraham's servant, and what lessons can we learn about being faithful stewards of the responsibilities God has given us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's promise to Abraham about making him a great nation, which is furthered through Isaac's marriage.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord's guidance, as demonstrated by Abraham's servant in his mission.

Hebrews 11:8-9
The faith of Abraham, which is mirrored in the faithfulness of his servant.

Ruth 1:16-17
The commitment to follow God's leading, similar to Rebekah's willingness to leave her family.

Philippians 4:6-7
The peace of God in decision-making, as seen in the servant's reliance on God's guidance.