Genesis 24:29 - Meaning and Application

Here we see the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah being arranged. The story is told in great detail, even down to small events that might seem unimportant. Things that seem mysterious and weighty, like the story of Melchizedek, are sometimes told in only a few words. In this way, God hides some things from the wise and learned, and reveals them to humble people (Matthew 11:25). He also teaches us to notice his providence, his wise care, in the ordinary events of life, and to use wisdom and grace in them.

This part of Scripture is not meant only for philosophers and rulers. It is meant to make all of us wiser and better in how we live, work, and run our homes. First, we see the warm welcome Abraham’s servant received from Rebekah’s family. Her brother Laban went out to invite him in, but only after he saw the earrings and bracelets on his sister’s hands (Genesis 24:30). Laban likely thought, “Here is a rich and generous man. We must welcome him well.” From the rest of the story, we can tell that he would not have been so open-handed if he had not hoped for a reward, which he later received (Genesis 24:53).

A person’s gift makes room for him, and it prospers him wherever it goes (Proverbs 18:16; Proverbs 17:8). The invitation was kind: “Come in, you blessed of the Lord” (Genesis 24:31). They saw that he was wealthy, so they called him blessed by the Lord. Or perhaps, after hearing Rebekah’s report (Genesis 24:28) and the gracious words he spoke, they judged him to be a good man whom God had blessed. Those who are blessed by God should be welcome to us. It is good to show honor to the people whom God honors.

The entertainment was kind too (Genesis 24:32, 33). The house and the place for the camels were well prepared, and Abraham’s servant was free to use both. Special care was given to the camels, because a good man cares about the life of his animals (Proverbs 12:10). If an ox knows its owner, then the owner should also know his ox and provide what is fitting for it.

Second, we have the full account the servant gave of his mission, and how he asked for their consent about Rebekah. He was set on his business. Even though he had finished a long journey and come to a good home, he would not eat until he had explained why he had come (Genesis 24:33). We should value doing our duty, whether for God or for others, even above necessary food. That was our Savior’s food and drink, to do his Father’s will (John 4:34).

He handled the matter wisely and honestly. He was faithful to his master, who trusted him, and fair to the people he was speaking with. He first gave them a short account of his master’s family (John 4:34-36). He was already welcome, but he was surely even more welcome when he said, “I am Abraham’s servant.” Abraham’s name was well known and respected among them. He also made two things clear to support his request, that Abraham had a large estate by God’s blessing, and that he had given all of it to Isaac, the son for whom he now came.

Then he explained the charge his master had given him, to find a wife for his son from among his own relatives, and the reason for it (Genesis 24:37, 38). He gently showed that Abraham still remembered and valued the family he had left behind, even though he had moved far away. Strong love for God should not wipe out natural family affection. He also answered a possible objection. If Isaac was such a worthy man, why look so far away for a wife? The answer was simple, Abraham’s son must not marry a Canaanite.

He then strengthened the request by speaking of his master’s faith that the mission would succeed (Genesis 24:40). Abraham took courage from his clear conscience, because he had walked before God in a steady life of holiness. That likely refers to God’s covenant with him, where God said, “I am God Almighty. Walk before me” (Genesis 17:1). So the servant says that the God before whom Abraham walked would send his angel. When we do our part in the covenant, we may take comfort in God doing his part. We should also learn to apply God’s general promises to particular needs as they arise.

He also pointed out that he had carefully preserved their freedom to accept or refuse the proposal, without putting them under pressure or exposing them to perjury, a serious act of false swearing (Genesis 24:39-41). This showed him to be careful in general, and especially careful not to force their consent. He then told them about the striking way God’s providence had worked to support the proposal, making it clear that God’s hand was in the matter. He had prayed for guidance by a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). It is good to carry God with us in our business through prayer.

God had answered exactly as he asked, even though he had spoken only in his heart (Genesis 24:45). He mentions that, perhaps to show that Rebekah had not overheard him and acted on purpose. “No,” he says in effect, “I spoke in my heart, so only God heard it, and God gave the answer” (Genesis 24:46, 47). He also said that he had at once thanked God for leading him, as he put it, in the right way. God’s way is always the right way (Psalm 107:7), and those whom he leads are well led.

At last he fairly placed the matter before them and waited for their answer (Genesis 24:49). “If you will deal kindly and honestly with my master, then all is well. If you truly mean kindness, you will accept this proposal. If not, do not keep me waiting.” Those who act fairly have reason to expect fair treatment.

They then accepted the proposal freely and gladly on a sound principle (Genesis 24:50). “This matter comes from the Lord. Providence is favoring it, and we have nothing to say against it.” They did not raise objections about the distance, Abraham’s leaving them, or his not having land already in his possession. They did not doubt the truth of the servant’s story. Instead, they trusted his honesty. It would be a good thing if honesty were so common among people that trusting a person’s word could be as natural as being kind to him.

They trust God’s care more, and so they keep silent and give their consent, because they see that God’s wisdom has ordered it. A marriage is likely to be peaceful when it seems to come from the Lord.

Abraham’s servant then gives thanks for the good outcome he has found. He worshiped the Lord (Genesis 24:52). As his success kept growing, he kept praising God. Those who pray without stopping should also give thanks in everything and recognize God’s hand in every kindness.

God had sent his angel ahead of him and given him success (Genesis 24:7, Genesis 24:40). But when the result he wanted came, he worshiped God, not the angel. Even if angels serve us and bring help, all glory must go to the Lord of the angels (Revelation 22:9).

He also showed respect to the family, especially to the bride (Genesis 24:53). He gave gifts to her, her mother, and her brother. This showed both his master’s wealth and generosity, and his gratitude for their kindness to him. It also helped him win their goodwill.