Reply To: Servanthood Discussion Board

[Omininikeipiriye Igani]

Rebekah’s Service to Abraham’s Servant
Rebekah’s service is a story that begins with a mindset change. When Abraham’s servant arrived in her town seeking a wife for Isaac, Rebekah’s willingness to serve him in his moment of need demonstrated her readiness to serve regardless of her social standing or status. The key moment occurs when she offers to draw water not just for Abraham’s servant but for his camels as well—an act that would require significant effort. Her service was not coerced or forced; it was a choice made freely, and her actions were motivated by an innate desire to meet the needs of others (Genesis 24:18-20).
What stands out in Rebekah’s service is her understanding that service is not degrading, but a response to the greater purpose she felt called to fulfill. Her actions were a reflection of the key lesson in Philippians 2:5-7, which teaches that true greatness comes from a humble mindset, considering others as more important than oneself. Rebekah demonstrated a servant’s heart, and this heart posture aligned with her purpose in life. She did not view serving the stranger as a form of belittlement but as an opportunity to honor God and fulfill her divine purpose.

Joseph’s Service to Potiphar in Egypt:
Joseph’s service to Potiphar provides a different but equally profound example of servant leadership. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, and though he was in a low estate, he chose to serve Potiphar with excellence and integrity. Joseph’s service in Potiphar’s house began when he was promoted to a position of great responsibility. Despite his circumstances, Joseph maintained a mindset of servitude that was rooted in his identity in God. This is evident in Genesis 39:2-6, where Joseph is described as succeeding in everything he did because “the Lord was with him.” His service was not defined by his position but by his understanding of who he was in God and the purpose he had to serve.
Joseph’s service was also a reflection of a continual renewal of the mind, understanding that his true identity was not dependent on his circumstances. The teachings in John 13:3-5, 12-17 emphasize that service requires understanding who we are in Christ. Joseph knew his identity in God, and this gave him the strength and humility to serve Potiphar with integrity, even when faced with the temptation from Potiphar’s wife. Joseph’s choice to remain steadfast in his service, even when it led to false accusations and imprisonment, shows that true service is driven by purpose rather than by immediate outcomes or recognition.

Comparison and Contrast
1. Identity in Christ: Both understood their identity in God. Rebekah’s service flowed from her awareness that she was part of God’s redemptive plan. Joseph’s service was grounded in the knowledge that his identity was in God, not his external circumstances.
2. Renewal of the Mind: Both Rebekah and Joseph experienced a transformation of mindset that enabled them to serve with excellence. Rebekah’s mindset was shaped by the understanding that greatness comes from humility and service. Joseph, on the other hand, continually renewed his mind to serve with integrity, despite his difficult situation.
3. Purpose: Both understood that they were part of a larger divine plan. Rebekah’s service to Abraham’s servant led her to fulfill the covenant promise with Isaac, while Joseph’s service ultimately positioned him to save Egypt and his family from famine.

In conclusion, while both Rebekah and Joseph displayed a servant’s heart, their service was rendered under different circumstances. Rebekah’s service was voluntary and initiated by her desire to help Abraham’s servant, while Joseph’s service was imposed upon him due to his enslavement. Nevertheless, both individuals exhibited the same key traits that led to successful service.