Lately, I’ve been distracted by the busyness of life. Everything seems to be moving too fast for my emotions to catch up. Then stress, anxiety, and fear sneak in and derail my mind. My focus instantly shifts to what is right in front of me. I forget all the goodness and all the times God showed up. And I forget to count my blessings, my Ebenezers.

The Distractions

One lesson in our Bible study focused on the place that Samuel named Ebenezer. The Israelites were no longer self-seeking and looking to God as a magic genie to rescue them from their enemies. They humbly came to Samuel and asked for help in following God. They willingly gave up their idols and confessed their shortcomings as a group.

The Philistines heard of this gathering and ambushed the Israelites. But God caused confusion to fill the ranks of the Philistines, and the Israelites swooped in for a victory. This amazing defeat is why Samuel named the place Ebenezer—the stone of help.

Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.”

~1 Samuel 7:12 NIV

I imagine the Israelites remembered that moment for years to come. Each time they passed by, they told others of God’s faithfulness. They recalled their Ebenezer.

The Ebenezers

When distractions come our way and hard circumstances blind our view, we should recall our own Ebenezers. Those moments where God showed up in mighty ways. When our back was against the wall, he moved all the pieces together right on time.

We must replay the good moments and remind ourselves of the victories. One at a time, God will slowly change our focus and restore true vision. And with open eyes, we will see circumstances through spiritual lenses rather than through distractions.

I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.

~Psalm 119:15 ESV

What are your Ebenezers? Think about them this week and remember how faithful God really is.

Dear Jesus, when distractions blind me, help me not to lose sight of those Ebenezers of Your faithfulness.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2026: My Ebenezers: Christy Bass Adams: All Rights Reserved.