Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

An Arranged Marriage
Read Genesis 24:1-27

"The LORD, the God of heaven, who brought me out of my father's household and my native land and who spoke to me and promised me on oath, saying, 'To your offspring I will give this land'–he will send his angel before you so that you can get a wife for my son from there." Genesis 24:7

Genesis 24 is the longest chapter in Genesis, and interestingly, it is devoted singly to the search for a bride for Isaac. It was initiated by Abraham who was determined that his son of promise must remain in the Promised Land and that his descendants must remain as pure Israelites. Today’s passage forms the first part of this beautiful novella.

One may wonder why so much narrative, albeit its romantic characteristic, was given to a single event of seemingly non-theological nature. Non-Jews may miss the special significance of this charming narrative.

We note that Ishmael had married an Egyptian wife (21:21). We see later (26:34) that Esau would marry two Hittite women. Isaac and Rebekah were to be the parents of a whole nation of Israel. Abraham was insistent that there should be purity of the Israelite stock. Furthermore, he knew that departure from the Promised Land was not God’s plan for Isaac. The timeless existence of divine guidance is also highlighted in the story. Additionally, a model for the life of a trusted servant is portrayed for our benefit.

Notice that the faithful servant, though unnamed, was a crucial vehicle for delivering God’s blessings in the daily affairs of this family. He carried out his assignment by praying, worshipping and telling of the goodness of God to his master (vs 26-27), for the Lord had blessed Abraham in every way (v 1).

1 Corinthianns 4:2: Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.

How faithful are you in doing behind-the-scenes work?

Pray for faithfulness in all things, be they big or small, seen or unseen.