"Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, Hitherto hath the Lord helped us." 1 Samuel 7:12
The stone which Samuel erected and which he called "Ebenezer" was a memorial to God's help and faithfulness. We too as Christians must not fail to remember God's benefits, for there is blessed comfort in taking spiritual inventory. As we look back over our lives, we recognize that God always came to our rescue no matter how serious the crisis we faced. It is true that often we did not understand His leading at the time, but in the end we found His way was best. What comfort and assurance this gives us for the future!
The late Dr. James M. Gray often related how when he was convalescing from a long illness it was suggested to him that he should plan a visit to the British provinces. This his doctors thought might bring the change of scenery and relaxation which he sorely needed. The arrangements were all laboriously made when suddenly, quite unexpectedly, another malady struck him and once again confined him to his bed. Dr. Gray was greatly disappointed and wondered what God could want of him by continually confining him to a sickroom. Soon he received a wonderful answer to his doubtful questioning. Some mornings later, upon picking up the newspaper, he read an account which related the tragic news that the steamer on which he would have sailed had struck a reef upon entering St. John's harbor, and had sunk almost instantly! The Lord who had helped him in the past had once again perfectly directed his way and protected him from death.
Christian, as you look back upon God's gracious leading in the past, you too should face the future confidently; for the God who cared for you then is still your divine Protector today. This is your "Ebenezer comfort."
"Bread For Each Day"
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