Reading over my daily “YouVersion” bible text for the day…it led me straight to Genesis 24. I have to admit that this chapter has caused me to reflect on my leadership and influence as a Christian, husband, and friend. The story line in this chapter is simple. It’s eloquent. It’s understandable. However, like with most scripture, it’s what is underlying that really gets me.

Let me set the scene and explain…Abraham is seeking out a wife for his son Isaac. It can’t be just anyone. No. Abraham is looking for someone of the same bloodline, someone special. This is an important task. He would do it himself, if it were not for his age. So he sends his chief servant, his number one, his right hand man. Abraham gives him specific instructions in what to look for, because the task is so important. The servant leaves, taking what he needs to accomplish the task. Will you take note of the actions of this servant as he approached the place where he might find the wife for Isaac…

Genesis 24 Vs 12

“Then he prayed, "O LORD, God of my master Abraham, give me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham.”

From this point, the servant goes on to pray a very detailed prayer, planning the actual thing he is going to say and do to find this woman. The events unfold exactly as the servant prayed. As the journey is met with success, the servant is found once again on his knees…

Genesis 24 Vs 26-27

“Then the man bowed down and worshiped the LORD, saying, "Praise be to the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master.”

This story is like many in the Bible. Ordinary people confronted with extraordinary tasks. It’s familiar. It’s overlooked…but deep in this chapter lies something at the heart of all ministry. If you look closely you’ll find…leadership & influence.The servant prayed to God for guidance, favor, direction, and hope. He prayed in detail. After meeting the task with success he gives glory and praise to God for answering. In doing this, he gives us a great prayerful example as to how to handle everyday life. However, his constant acknowledgement of God, before and after his circumstances, is a direct representation of the leadership he has served under. Can you imagine serving under Abraham? Maybe the question is…are you an “Abraham”? If not, maybe you should be…

Our life is one great example. Our life should have purpose and be influential. I don’t know if Abraham’s leadership was intentional…but my guess is…that it was very intentional. If you were going to be around Abraham, you were going to know his God. You were going to understand prayer. You were going to understand praise. You were going to understand relationship. His leadership challenged you to make changes in your life…

Who do you challenge...influence...and lead?