Ebenezer

By Paul Chappell

"And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel. And the men of Israel went out of Mizpeh, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, until they came under Bethcar. 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 7:10-12

When most people hear the word "Ebenezer" they think of the character of Scrooge in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. But like many names, it is taken from Scripture and holds an important meaning. The Hebrew word means "stone of help." The prophet Samuel set up a stone as a reminder for the children of Israel after God gave them a great victory over their enemies. It is vitally important both for our own lives and for our children and grandchildren that we have reminders of God’s goodness.

In their book Disciplines of a Godly Family, Kent and Barbara Hughes wrote that because of our rootless culture, "Every Christian family [should] take conscious and disciplined measures to cultivate tradition and memory. But there is an even more compelling reason. Namely, God’s Word dramatically recommends that all believing families cultivate both spiritual memory and spiritual traditions to commemorate and celebrate God’s goodness."

Because of our fallen nature, it is easy for us to take credit for the good things that happen rather than thanking and glorifying God. By reminding ourselves of the great things He has done for us, we keep our gratitude and faith strong. This is a vital spiritual discipline not only for our own lives but for the sake of our children as well. The remembrance of what God has done should be a testimony from generation to generation.

Today's Rooted Principle:

Make sure you have a lasting way to remind yourself and your family of the ways God has helped you.