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ISAAC AND REBEKAH Genesis 24 The story of Isaac and Rebekah is a perfect example of God's control over His people's lives, God's perfect plan, and a beautiful love story. From the beginning of Isaac's life, God has been in control. Isaac was born as a "promised child" and has been following God ever since. Now, as Abraham, Isaac's father, was becoming older, he wanted to make sure Isaac would find a suitable mate. But, she had to be from his home country, Nahor (which is of the lineage of Christ!), and not a daughter of the Canaanites. So Abraham sent out his servant with camels and gifts to Nahor to find a wife for Isaac. Here was this servant in the middle of a strange country, next to a well, who had to find one girl. The only thing he could think of to do was pray for a sign. "And it came to pass" that the right woman would, when asked, give the servant a drink from the well and offer to water his camels, too. "And it came to pass," before he had even finished praying—God answered. Rebekah, the beautiful daughter of Bethuel, came over to the well. The servant then asked her for a drink, and, you guessed it, she gave him a drink and offered to water his camels, too. She was the one! God's plan is running smoothly; no obstacles can get in the way of God, if you trust Him. "And it came to pass," when the camels had finished drinking, the servant presented her with a golden nose ring and two golden bracelets. The servant then asks to stay at her house that night and waits outside and worships the Lord. Meanwhile, Rebekah goes to tell her family the news. "And it came to pass," Laban, Rebekah's brother comes out to see the servant and invites him in to have dinner. There, he explains everything to her family and asked if she could come with him to marry Isaac. Rebekah's father sees that this is the Lord's plan for her and lets her go. He knew the truth of Psalm 18:30a: "As for God, His way is perfect;" But now, there is one obstacle: Rebekah's mother wants her to stay for a while. Now, it was up to Rebekah to make the choice—and she willingly goes! She was then blessed, and she left to meet her future husband. Proverbs 19:21 – “many are the plans in a man's (or in this case, a mother's) heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.” Meanwhile, Isaac was out in the field praying and noticed the camels approaching, knowing his future wife was there. The servant met up with him and told him how everything 'came to pass'. Isaac then married her and loved her immediately—with no objections. He knew it was God’s plan for his life. God has a purpose that will 'come to pass' in our lives, and He will provide for us if we follow Him and trust His will for our lives. Psalm 25: 10 reads, "all the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of His covenant." ~ Jill Krauser, age 17
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