1Sa 7:12 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.”
A general meeting for prayer and repentance brought trouble to the Israelites. The Philistines thought that they were planning evil against them and invaded them. Israel could never be threatened more seasonably than at this time when they were repenting and praying. ( 1Sa 7:7)
The Israelites were unarmed and unprepared for war. Prayers and tears were the only available weapons. They earnestly urged Samuel not to cease crying to the Lord for them. He offered a sacrifice and made intercession for them and the Lord heard him.(1Sa 7:9)
The answer was a real answer! The Philistines were greatly discomfited . “The lord thundered with loud thunder against the Philistines and threw them in such a panic that they were routed before the Israelites” (1Sa 7:10)
Then Samuel elected a thankful memorial of this victory to the glory of God and for the encouragement of Israel. He set up an Ebenezer – the stone of help. He was grateful because , ” thus far the Lord had helped them”
Christian friends, this far, the Lord has brought us! From the time the first case of covid-19 was reported, Yahweh has not abandoned his people. He has been with us, protected us, provided for us and upheld us. ” If THE LORD WAS NOT ON OUR SIDE, Our enemies would have swallowed us alive.( Psa 124:2,3b) Thus far, the Lord has helped us!
Additional readings:
Gen 35:14
Deu 27:2,4
Jos 4:9
🙏Blessed Day🙏