Remembering God’s Faithfulness With Ebenezer Stones
It can be easy to overlook the myriad of ways God provides for us daily. Our minds are often preoccupied with future plans or current worries, leaving little room for reflection on Their ongoing divine interventions. I know this has been true of my life, which is why I love having tangible reminders to draw me out of my mind and back into the present moment with God (especially when I am facing grief).
My Ebenezer stones
You know how you can read over the same Bible verses many times, and different things stick out for you in different seasons? That's how it was for me when I first discovered the Ebenezer stones in 1 Samuel. I was in a season of grief and wondering where God was when YHWH didn't show up like I expected Them to. Learning about the Ebenezer stones reminded me that God is always faithful to us and that bringing my focus back to where God has been faithful in the past could help me to remain hopeful for Their continued help. By establishing my own "stones of help," I could create a visible and tangible reminder of God's ongoing provision and support.
The Concept of Ebenezer Stones
The term "Ebenezer" comes from 1 Samuel 7:12, where after a significant victory over the Philistines, the prophet Samuel set up a stone and named it Ebenezer, which means "stone of help." This stone was intended to be a physical reminder for the Israelites of God's assistance and deliverance. Whenever they passed by the stone, they were reminded of God's protection and guidance.
Modern-Day Ebenezer Stones
So grateful for God’s gift of the prayer garden on my patio
Incorporating the concept of Ebenezer stones into our lives can provide similar reminders of God's ongoing faithfulness. Being a "naturalist," I wanted to create something out of earth elements, physical stones. Something I could physically walk past and be reminded when I saw it.
I purchased a set of black river rocks, a glass vase, and a gold paint pen. Knowing this was an ongoing project, I started looking for places where God was at work in my life. When something came to mind, I would write down a word on the rock to represent God's work in my life, and place it in the glass vase (which sits in my living room where I pass by it often). Then, I would write that word down in a journal with a brief description and date of the occurrence.
Here are several ways you can create a modern-day Ebenezer stone:
1. A Journal of Gratitude
Maintaining a gratitude journal dedicated to recording instances of God's provision can serve as a powerful Ebenezer stone. Each entry can document moments of unexpected blessings, answered prayers, or divine interventions. Over time, this journal becomes a testament to God's continuous support, offering encouragement and reassurance during difficult times.
2. A Rock Collection (similar to mine)
Collecting pebbles or small stones from locations where significant moments of divine help were experienced can be a meaningful practice. Each pebble can represent a story of God's intervention or provision. Placing these pebbles in a visible location serves as a constant reminder of God's presence and assistance in our lives.
3. A Photo Album of Blessings
Creating a photo album filled with images of people, places, and events where God's hand was evident can be another form of Ebenezer stone. These photos can capture moments of family unity, job opportunities, or acts of kindness from friends. This visual reminder helps reinforce the awareness of God's faithfulness and provision.
4. A Bracelet of Promises
Wearing a bracelet with charms or symbols that represent specific promises from God can provide a daily reminder of YHWH’s faithfulness. Each charm can symbolize a different aspect of God's provision, such as peace, healing, or protection. This tangible reminder can help maintain focus on God's promises, especially during challenging times.
I’ve been collecting rocks to add to the jar from all of the times and places where I have experienced God’s faithful care & provision in my life
The Power of Remembrance
Integrating these modern-day Ebenezer stones into our daily lives can significantly impact our spiritual journey. They serve as constant reminders that God, Jehovah Jireh, the Lord Who Provides, is always present, even in the midst of trials. These stones not only strengthen our faith but also cultivate a spirit of gratitude. Reflecting on God's past faithfulness reassures us that They will continue to provide and guide us in the future.
Encouraging others to create their own Ebenezer stones (like I did here) can help build-up your community of faith. By sharing our stories and reminders, we inspire each other to recognize and celebrate the countless ways God supports us every day. In doing so, we honor God's provision and strengthen our collective faith, continually pointing back to the One who never fails us.
Where has God been faithful in your life? I would love to hear your stories of God's faithfulness in our online community, The Collective, on WhatsApp or Facebook.
In Him,
Jennifer
PS- If you are looking for more Ebenezer stone and creative prayer inspirations, be sure to check out our Pinterest boards.
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