When God shows Himself faithful, how do we respond?
In the story of Isaac and Rebekah, when Abraham sent his servant to the land of his father’s family to find a bride for his son, God clearly answered the faithful prayers of those who called on His Name, and made the path clear. Abraham’s servant prayed for a specific scenario upon his arrival, so that he might know whom God had chosen. When the servant stood beside the spring of water with his camels, Rebekah did just as he had prayed that God’s chosen one would do, as she offered water to both he and his camels. From there, the servant returned with she and her brother to her household, where he shared with the family his purpose for being in town, and asked to take Rebekah back to Isaac to be his bride. The mother wanted to delay, but Abraham’s servant let them know that he really must return to his master quickly. So they called Rebekah and asked her, “Will you go with this man?” “I will go,” she said. – (Genesis 24:58)
I find Rebekah’s faith remarkable. She was barely more than a girl, yet her faith was certain, as she was willing to leave all that she knew to travel to a far away land and become the bride of a man that she did not know. Rebekah understood all that the Lord had done to orchestrate her being chosen to be the one to bring water to a stranger and his camels at just the right time, in response to one man’s faithfully prayed prayers for direction. All around us, God orchestrates encounters. We are presented opportunities to share His goodness with those who may not yet know Him. At times, He calls us to go into places unknown. When He calls us, how will we respond?
into the unknown;
faithful the prayers,
of one servant sown.
Certain to answer,
the Lord, He made clear;
the one He’d chosen,
as she had drawn near.
The scene unfolded,
just as he had prayed;
and she responded,
without a delay.
May we learn to do,
as Rebekah did;
and say, “I will go,”
for that’s where God is.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the countless examples of both Your faithfulness, and those who were obedient to what You asked of them. Thank You that You still speak today. Thank You that we have the benefit of Your Holy Spirit, dwelling within us to lead and guide us, every step of the way. Forgive us for our fears and hesitation to go where You call. Teach us to trust You more, so that we might be fearless in Your strength. Lead us to love and serve as Jesus modeled for us. May many come to know the eternal hope that is held in You alone. Be glorified Lord God, as we choose to say, “I will go.” Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.
Answer me, O Lord, out of the goodness of Your love; in Your great mercy turn to me. – Psalm 69:16
This had me in tears today. I loved reading this story this morning, but did my SOAP on a verse in Luke. It turns out it was a very similar message. A willingness to obey and follow, to give up my plan for my life and embrace God’s. Really cool connection. Instead of a resolution this year I decided to choose a word of inspiration. My word is Embrace (specifically aimed at the adventure before me.) Today’s reading, plus your beautiful writing, fit right in!
Thanks so much for sharing, Haley. Love your word, Embrace, and love you. I am so excited for you and your family and all that He has for you, but sad for those of us who will feel your absence… ❤
I too find her faith remarkable. It’s too bad that she didn’t continue to demonstrate the same faith when she helped Jacob deceive Isaac later in her life. Interesting how some people can be so strong in some points and then weak in others. That’s one of the many reasons we need God’s grace!