Daily Devotions
Genesis
"Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men." Psalm 66:5
Text: Genesis 24 : 1 - 67
DEPARTURE FROM MESOPOTAMIA
Rebekah’s family may not have been as wealthy as Abraham’s, but they were not exactly poor either. Rebekah had a wet-nurse who went with her (Genesis 24:59). She must have led a fairly comfortable life, judging from the small entourage that accompanied her.
“Then Rebekah and her maids arose, and thy rode
on the camels and followed the man. So the servant took
Rebekah and departed.”GENESIS 24:61
Thus began the long journey back to Canaan for Eliezer! God had blessed his quest for a wife for Isaac.
GLIMPSES OF THE PROSPECTIVE BRIDEGROOM
What was Isaac like? The first glimpse of Isaac was when he went to Mount Moriah with his father (Cf. Genesis 22). He displayed good features then.
1. He was a good and filial son
He must have been quite close to Abraham! There must have been a strong bond of love between father and son (Cf. Genesis 22:12). Significant family relationships like this one always speak well of the persons involved!
2. He showed both understanding and faith
Though his faith was not featured (for the test from God was for his father, Abraham) nevertheless, Isaac had faith enough to submit to his father to be that lamb of sacrifice.
3. A Contemplative Inclination
Another meaningful glimpse is afforded us in the following text.
“Now Isaac came from the way of Beer Lahai Roi,
for he dwelt in the south. And Isaac went out to meditate
in the field in the evening; and he lifted up his eyes and looked,
and there, the camels were coming.”GENESIS 24:62-63
What an interesting additional feature was added to Isaac’s portrait! He was given to contemplative inclinations! Not too many young men were given to such pursuits! Was Isaac given to strong intellectual and spiritual inclinations?
4. An Attentive Young Man as well
Isaac was an attentive young man as well! He took notice of the camel train that was coming his way. Of course he knew the errand his father had sent Eliezer on. And of course he would give attention to the success or failure of that mission!