Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Ebenezer: God’s Help Thus Far

Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 7:1-12

Key Verse: "Thus far the LORD has helped us" (1 Sam.7:12).

DEVOTION

1 Samuel 7 recounts the Israelites’ repentance under Samuel’s leadership, abandoning idolatry and restoring the Ark of the Covenant to Kiriath-Jearim. Facing an imminent attack by the Philistines, they cried out to God, who delivered them through divine intervention. In gratitude, Samuel set up a stone named Ebenezer, signifying God’s help and faithfulness.

The chapter portrays Israel as a fractured community compromised by idolatry and external influences. Samuel’s call to repentance highlights the power of moral accountability and the need to return to foundational principles of truth, justice, and faith. This leadership offers a model for modern communities grappling with division, corruption, or systemic injustice. Israel’s victory underscores that ultimate power and justice come from God, not human institutions. Societies facing oppression can find hope in God’s sovereignty and the assurance that His justice prevails in unexpected ways. The story emphasizes that renewal begins with acknowledging collective wrongs and committing to spiritual and ethical values.

The Ebenezer stone symbolizes God’s past faithfulness and inspires trust in His continued guidance. Similarly, commemorating moments of divine intervention and justice through monuments, traditions, and shared stories fosters unity and hope for the future. As Israel trusted God to lead them forward, we too can draw strength from remembering His help “thus far” and trusting Him for what lies ahead.
 

   PRAYER

Lord, we thank You for being our Ebenezer, our help and refuge throughout this year. We acknowledge our dependence on You and repent of our failures. As we end this year and step into the next, help us to trust You more deeply, celebrate Your faithfulness, and walk in Your will. Amen.


Thought of the day

     As you end the year, raise your Ebenezer; a declaration that "Thus far the LORD has helped us." Let His faithfulness in the past inspires hope and confidence for the future.


Santhosh Varughese
Mar Thoma Church in Dammam, Saudi Arabia

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