Spiritual Markers

“Jacob built an altar there and named the place El-bethel, because God had appeared to him there when he was fleeing from his brother, Esau.” Genesis 35:7 (NLT)

Jacob builds an altar. Jacob set up a stone pillar. Jacob set up a stone monument. (35:7, 14, 20) Jacob marked his trail and because of that, he was able to track his progress. God had originally appeared to him at this place he named Bethel and promised to bring him back there again. Jacob’s life took many turns after that, but they all led him back to this spot. The first time, he had marked it with a stone; this time he marked it with an altar. God was not leading him in circles; He was leading Jacob deeper into his faith. God had kept his promise to bring him back so now Jacob could move on.

Spiritual markers help us to see our progress in the faith. What are some markers in your life? Marking your trail will help others along the way.

ONETHING: Set spiritual markers on the path of faith.

There’s a stretch of road between Magnolia and Prescott that I have traveled on a consistent basis during my life. First as a young boy moving here, then as a young man off to college. Later, as a new minister, it was the road home from my ministry in North Little Rock. Now, I travel that road again, as a father to visit a child at Ouachita and as a traveler leaving my home, Magnolia, for a trip to someplace I will soon return from. It is kind of my own “Bethel” which reminds me of the journey of faith God has led me on. The Habit of Perseverance is dotted with spiritual markers which show us continued progress toward our ultimate home in heaven.

PlusONE: Mark my path well, so my loved ones can follow behind.