August 17

The Providence Of The Trifle

“O LORD, God of my master Abraham,” he prayed, “please grant me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham. Here I am, standing beside the spring, and the daughters of the townspeople are coming out to draw water. Now may it happen that the girl to whom I say, ‘Please let down your jar that I may drink,’ and who responds, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels as well’—let her be the one You have appointed for Your servant Isaac. By this I will know that You have shown kindness to my master.” — Gen 24:12-14 BSB

From this beautiful incident, we can learn much about God’s guidance of the soul. Eliezer, Abraham’s faithful servant, had evidently absorbed something of his master’s faith and ways. As we read this simple narrative, we can see some of the principles by which the entire camp was guided. Eliezer speaks of "the God of my master Abraham" four times. When entrusted with Abraham’s plan, he embraced it with the same zeal as if it were his own concern. Would that we had the same intent on our Heavenly Master’s business and that those around us would be as deeply impressed by the reverence and prayerfulness of our lives!

Each step Eliezer took was in fellowship with God, yet he still managed the situation carefully as he assessed Rebekah’s disposition. His faith in God’s care over the smallest details is inspiring. He held his peace as she drew water and, in the confidence of answered prayer, placed the bracelets on her arms without hesitation. Be alert to see God’s hand in everything!

Notice how many times Eliezer refers to "my master." From him, we can learn how to speak of our Savior, whenever possible—“Rabboni, which means, My Master!”

When asking for success, Eliezer’s plea was that it would show kindness to his master Abraham. Similarly, when we ask great things from God, we can plead in the name of Jesus, confident that God will show kindness to us for His sake (John 15:16). This old-world story offers a beautiful lesson for those who call Jesus Master and Lord.

Prayer

Send me, O Lord, I humbly ask, good success this day. May I know when to speak and when to be silent, when to act and when to refrain. In all the details of life, may I faithfully serve You, my Master and Friend. Amen.