“Then he prayed, ‘Lord, God of my master Abraham, make me successful today…”
Genesis 24:12-14 (NIV)
Eliezer, Abraham’s senior servant, was on a mission: to find a wife for Isaac. The task was overwhelming – how could he choose the right person for his master’s son in a foreign land? Instead of relying on his own wisdom and experience, he turned to God in prayer.
Eliezer’s prayer shows us how to seek God’s guidance:
1. He acknowledged God’s role in any success.
- “Lord…make me successful today…” (verse 12). Thus, true success comes from God, not human effort, reinforced in Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) which says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
2. He asked for God’s kindness and direction.
- Eliezer didn’t just want to accomplish the task – he wanted God’s will. Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV) says, “Show me Your ways, Lord, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me…”.
3. He prayed specifically (verse 14).
- He asked for a clear sign so he wouldn’t mistake God’s choice. Philippians 4:6 (NIV) admonishes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Abraham’s servant followed these three principles and God answered his prayer immediately, showing us that when we seek Him sincerely, He directs our steps.
Praying for God’s guidance is very important since it allows us to clearly recognise God’s answers – it protects us, aligns us with His will, strengthens faith, and positions us to fulfil our God-given purpose.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, just as You guided Eliezer, guide me today. I commit my plans into Your hands. Show me the path I should take, and help me to trust Your leadership. Thank You for caring about every detail of my life. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
Read: Psalm 119:105; John 16:13
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 109:21-31; Ephesians 1; Isaiah 51:17-23; Isaiah 52; Isaiah 53; Isaiah 54