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How do you deal with anxiety in your life: how do you lay your burden down?

Yesterday we met Eliezer of Damascus, the oldest servant in Abraham’s household. Until the birth of Isaac Eliezer was the most likely person to inherit Abraham’s wealth. When Abraham and Sarah were blessed in their old age with the birth of Isaac, Eliezer being Abraham’s heir vanished.

Apparently this did not affect the very close relationship that Eliezer had with his Master. Indeed, some years later, Abraham entrusted Eliezer with the crucial task of going back to the land where his brother had settled in order to find a bride from amongst Abraham’s extended family for Isaac. This task caused Eliezer much anxiety. What if I find a bride for Isaac who is unwilling to come back here, may I take Isaac to live in your kinsman’s land?, was one of the questions he asked. Finally, after their discussion, Eliezer agreed to do as Abraham directed and he swore a sacred oath as Abraham required.

Having arrived in the distant land, Eliezer sought the guidance of God. His prayer included a plan as to how the future bride would be identified for him. Just as he finished his prayer, a woman from the village came to draw water. Her answer to Eliezer’s request for a drink revealed that she was one the Lord had chosen. Relief and joy replaced Eliezer’s anxiety as his burden was lifted.

Bible Reading: Genesis 24:1-67