‘Samuel then took a large stone and placed it between the towns of Mizpah and Jeshanah. He named it Ebenezer (which means “the stone of help”), for he said, “Up to this point the Lord has helped us!”’ (1 Samuel 7:12 NLT).
Samuel called the Israelites to Mizpah for an assembly of repentance and recommitment, but the Philistines heard about their gathering and attacked. God fought for Israel and they overcame the Philistines for the first time in a generation. There, Samuel set up a large stone to remind them of God’s help, calling it “Ebenezer,” meaning “stone of help.”
Samuel understood that we are a forgetful people and need reminders. Some of us journal, writing it down when God rescues. Some carry a chip to commemorate their years of sobriety. Some keep a photo or certificate. Others compose a song, like “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” singing: “Here I raise mine Ebenezer; hither by thy help I’m come; and I hope, by thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home.”
Do you have an “Ebenezer” to remember what God has done for you? If not, get one. Then, raise it high today! Remember and be encouraged!
PRAYER: Dear Father, we are often forgetful. Help us to remember all the great things You have done for us. Above them all, help us to look to the cross, the “Ebenezer,” that reminds us of the most costly thing You’ve done for us by giving us Your Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. We look to Him and remember that we have received a great salvation. Now strengthen us to tell others of Your great love. In Jesus’ name, amen.