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Genesis 24 – Praying through the Bible #13 – A Prayer of Big Decision
I dare you, I dare me, to follow the example of this “Praying through the Bible.” The unnamed servant is given a seemingly impossible task, so naturally the servant turns to God. I say “naturally” when it is actually spiritually because believers in God’s covenants should naturally turn to the spiritual. His task is to find a wife for Isaac, one related to Abraham’s family, in a land his master left more than half a century before (23.1; 12.4), who is willing to marry a man she has never met (24.1). Simple, right?
How will this daunting mission be accomplished? By being the right kind of person who makes the right kind of decisions. One, he is trustworthy, which is why his master chooses him (24.2-4). Two, he is wise, preparing by taking gifts (24.22,53). Three, he prays for help, showing himself to be dependently holy. Four, he prays for divine “kindness,” not for himself but for Abraham; so he is loyal and kind (24.12). Five, he is wise, formulating a “camel test,” in making a character list (24.14,.43-44). One camel can drink 25 gallons and he has 10. Six, this servant is filled with faith, believing God will answer (24.12,49). Seven, this trusted soul is grateful, giving God credit (24.26-27). Eight, he is patient, silently watching Rebekah to see whether or not the Lord has made his journey a success (24.21). Nine, he is dutiful until the end, “I will not eat until have said what I have to say” (24.33).
Nothing miraculous happens in God answering this prayer. Personally, I often consider non-miraculous divine providence more demonstrating of divine power than the awe of wonders, signs and miracles. Remotely controlling circumstances instead of directly changing them; Master of time itself; molding and manipulating man’s free will without violation, is truly divine power.
Dare we make “decision lists” in our prayers wanting and waiting to see God’s hand? Dare we stick to them? Too often, we are unbiblically deistic in our view of God’s daily activities. Asking God to control us through providence is a great act of faith. Do we dare?
Prayer Challenge: When making decisions, imitate this unnamed servant’s character and actions. Make a proper list, sticking to it, turning to God. Be ready to be filled with awe, bowing down, praising and worshipping (24.26). Be ready to be God’s answer.
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