A God-Centred Testimony (Gen 24:28-48)
In Genesis 23, Sarah passed away, and Abraham tasked his servant Eleazar to find a wife for Isaac, from whom the nation and the promised Messiah would come forth. His wife must not be a Canaanite, thus Eleazar had to travel about 1,000 km to find a wife for Isaac from amongst Abraham’s relatives. Eleazar’s is a God-centered testimony. (1) Testimony of clear conviction. Eleazer informed Laban that he was a servant of Abraham (Gen 24:34). He shared how the LORD has been good to his master and the mission tasked to him. He would not rest till the task was accomplished. Here we see that Eleazar identified himself not only as Abraham’s servant, but also as the LORD’s servant. He served regardless of convenience. Let us also serve our God regardless of convenience, ease and comfort. Eleazar was also very clear of God’s goodness to Abraham, and he gave thanks for that. We too must learn to be thankful. Eleazar was very clear that he must not get a Canaanite woman for Isaac. We too must have clear convictions not to be unequally yoked. (2) Testimony of faith and provision. Eleazer was not sure if the woman would be willing to come to Canaan (Gen 24:39), but Abraham assured him that “the LORD, before whom I walk” would be with him. Abraham was very clear that the LORD (the covenant-keeping God) will provide. Abraham walked with God and trusted Him. Our faith must be based on the revealed Word and will of God. We must walk with Him personally, and have such personal experiences of exercised faith in God. For our faith to increase, we must exercise it. We must trust God in our daily decisions and trials, choosing to do what pleases Him. When we experience His deliverance and provision, we will grow in our faith. God will honour those who honour Him. He is truly the Sovereign One who is in control of all things, we can trust Him and we must obey and do what is right. Exercising our faith will involve struggles, sometimes deep ones. Keep responding to trials in faith by choosing to trust in God, rather than to complain or be bitter. Cry to Him rather than cry against Him. (3) Testimony of praise. In Genesis 24:45, it is very clear that even before Eleazer finished praying, the LORD answered his prayer already. And Eleazar praised Him (Gen 24:48). We too must learn to praise God and not take things for granted or attribute them to chance. We must praise God for who He is and for His goodness towards us. |