Morning Devotional 050525 Here I Raise My Ebenezer

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

  May 5, 2025

Jeremiah 17:7-8        

7 Happy are those who trust in the LORD, who rely on the LORD. 8 They will be like trees planted by the streams, whose roots reach down to the water. They won’t fear drought when it comes; their leaves will remain green. They won’t be stressed in the time of drought or fail to bear fruit.

Good Morning. Our God is an awesome God!

Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." This quote emphasizes the importance of taking action, even when the full path or outcome is unclear. King reminds us that it takes courage and trust to begin a journey, even when facing uncertainty. 

Each day is a new beginning! Before the sun chases away the darkness, we sit up and contemplate our next step. Sometimes our pathway is clear, but other times there are things that might trip us up. 

God doesn’t promise that our lives will be easy, but God promises to be with us and provide for us every step we take. Jesus says, “Follow me!” He doesn’t say where he will lead us, but he asks us to trust him as we journey along our faith journey. 

For those who listen and follow, we experience God moments along the way to bring moments of clarity. As I entered the clergy conference last week, I felt a bit of apprehension as I found an empty seat and prayed for spiritual uplifting. The morning began with singing contemporary songs of praise. 

It was wonderful hearing the voices fill the space, but I was still unsure of my surroundings. The final song of the opening was a traditional hymn, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing. Suddenly, I had my God moment. Lowell loved this hymn; he particularly loved the 2nd verse. As the tears filled my eyes, I felt him boisterously singing, “Here I raise my Ebenezer,” in my heart and soul. I said a quick prayer of thanks, and all my apprehension disappeared. 

The term "Ebenezer" comes from the Hebrew phrase "stone of help," referencing a stone erected by Samuel to commemorate the Israelites' victory over the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:12). The Ebenezer serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the times He has been present and supportive, encouraging the believer to trust in Him for future challenges. 

May we collectively raise our Ebenezer this morning and eagerly greet this day!

Loving Lord, Maker of all things! We are apprehensive when the path before us is unclear. Thank you for holding our hands so that we may lean on your strength. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: God moments allow us to glimpse God working in our lives. 

Fear not, God is with us! Pastor Liz