Genesis 24:48

Then I bowed down and worshiped the LORD; and I blessed the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who led me on the right road to take the granddaughter of my master's brother for his son.

Study Bible

Then I bowed down
The act of bowing down is a physical expression of humility and reverence. In Hebrew, the word used here is "וָאֶקֹּד" (va'ekod), which signifies a deep respect and submission to God. This gesture reflects the servant's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and his own position as a servant. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, bowing was a common practice to show honor and submission, especially in religious contexts.

and worshiped the LORD
The Hebrew word for worship here is "וָאֶשְׁתַּחֲוֶה" (va'eshtachaveh), which means to prostrate oneself in homage. Worship in this context is not just a ritualistic act but a heartfelt response to God's faithfulness and guidance. The servant's worship is directed towards "the LORD" (YHWH), emphasizing the covenantal relationship between God and Abraham's family. This act of worship signifies gratitude and recognition of God's providence.

I blessed the LORD
To bless the LORD, "בָּרוּךְ יְהוָה" (baruch YHWH), is to speak well of God, acknowledging His goodness and faithfulness. The servant's blessing is an expression of praise and thanksgiving. In the biblical context, blessing God is a way of recognizing His active role in the lives of His people. It is a declaration of God's character and deeds, affirming His involvement in the unfolding of His promises.

the God of my master Abraham
This phrase highlights the personal and covenantal relationship between God and Abraham. The servant identifies God as "the God of my master Abraham," which underscores the continuity of God's promises and faithfulness from one generation to the next. It also reflects the servant's understanding of his role within the larger narrative of God's covenant with Abraham. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of God's specific promises to Abraham and his descendants.

who had led me on the right road
The phrase "led me on the right road" speaks to God's guidance and providence. The Hebrew word for "led" is "הִנְחָנִי" (hinchani), which implies a deliberate and purposeful direction. The "right road" signifies not only the physical path but also the moral and spiritual direction aligned with God's will. This guidance is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and directing His servants in accordance with His divine plan.

to take the granddaughter of my master’s brother
This part of the verse refers to Rebekah, the granddaughter of Nahor, Abraham's brother. The specificity of the familial relationship underscores the importance of maintaining the covenant lineage. In the ancient Near Eastern context, family ties were crucial for the continuation of heritage and promises. This selection of Rebekah is seen as divinely orchestrated, ensuring that the covenantal blessings would continue through Isaac's line.

for his son
The phrase "for his son" refers to Isaac, the son of Abraham. This highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants. Isaac, as the child of promise, is central to the continuation of God's covenant. The servant's successful mission in finding a wife for Isaac is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, ensuring the perpetuation of God's promises to Abraham's lineage. This act of divine guidance and provision is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelite nation, who sent his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac.

2. The Servant
Likely Eliezer of Damascus, Abraham's trusted servant, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac.

3. Rebekah
The granddaughter of Abraham's brother Nahor, chosen to be Isaac's wife.

4. Nahor
Abraham's brother, whose family the servant visits to find a wife for Isaac.

5. Haran
The place where Nahor's family lived, and where the servant traveled to find Rebekah.

Teaching Points

Faithful Service
The servant's dedication to his master's mission exemplifies faithful service. We are called to serve God and others with the same commitment.

Divine Guidance
The servant's journey shows the importance of seeking and recognizing God's guidance in our decisions. We should pray for and trust in God's direction in our lives.

Worship and Gratitude
The servant's response of worship and blessing God upon success teaches us to acknowledge God's hand in our achievements and to express gratitude.

God's Providence
The account illustrates God's providence in fulfilling His promises. We can trust that God is at work in our lives, orchestrating events for His purposes.

Obedience and Trust
The servant's obedience to Abraham and trust in God's leading are key themes. We are encouraged to obey God's commands and trust His plans for us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's attitude and actions in Genesis 24:48 reflect a heart of worship and gratitude? How can we cultivate a similar attitude in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in our decision-making processes, as the servant did? What practical steps can we take to ensure we are following God's leading?

3. How does the account of the servant finding Rebekah demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Can you think of a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life?

4. What can we learn from the servant's obedience to Abraham and his trust in God's plan? How can we apply these lessons to our own relationships and responsibilities?

5. How does the concept of divine providence in this passage connect with other scriptures that speak about God's sovereignty and care? How does this understanding impact your view of current events in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's promise to Abraham, which sets the foundation for the importance of finding a suitable wife for Isaac to continue the covenant.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord for guidance, as the servant did in his mission.

Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, reflecting the servant's journey.

James 1:5
Asking God for wisdom, as the servant sought divine guidance in his task.

Hebrews 11:8-9
Abraham's faith, which is mirrored in the servant's faithful execution of his task.