And the
men of Israel went out of Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, and drove them
back as far as below Beth Car. Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and
called its name Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” (v.11-12)
In our
text, Samuel erected a stone and called it 'Ebenezer,' or 'stone of help.' Much
more than a simple war memorial, 'Ebenezer's' purpose is to remind Israel that
God won the victory, not them. The stone reminds them to follow and trust God
in the future also, rather than backsliding to idolatry and disobedience.
Setting
up a 'stone of remembrance' may be seen in other Old Testament accounts as
well. For instance, when Israel crossed the Jordan River into the Promised
Land, they set up stones to mark the event (Joshua 4:8-9). Or in a more
personal example, Jacob, after having his famous dream of angels and a stairway
to heaven, set up a stone at Bethel to acknowledge his encounter with God
(Genesis 28:18-19)
In my
personal history, there have also been spiritual milestones, 'stones of
remembrance' on my road with the Lord. Places I can look back upon and see His
hand on my life. I’m sure each and every one of you could look back and journal
your milestones as well.
If you've
never done so before, map out a spiritual timeline of your life, noting major
turning points and seeing the 'big picture' of what God has been doing in your
life. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, there is no better time to do
just that and share your story with others.
We all
have a story to tell – so tell it and give praise to the chief cornerstone of
our faith, our rock, our fortress, our defense - Jesus.
The Truth
Therefore
it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone,
elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
(1 Peter 2:6)
