And from that day a long time passed, twenty years in all, as the ark remained at Kiriath-jearim. And all the house of Israel mourned and sought after the LORD. From that dayThis phrase marks a significant turning point in the narrative of Israel's history. The "day" refers to the time when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Kiriath-jearim. In Hebrew, the word for "day" is "yom," which can signify a literal day or an extended period. Here, it signifies the beginning of a new era for Israel, a time of reflection and spiritual renewal. a long time passed twenty years in all and the whole house of Israel mourned and sought after the LORD Persons / Places / Events 1. The Ark of the CovenantA sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with Israel. It had been captured by the Philistines and later returned to Israel, now residing in Kiriath-jearim. 2. Kiriath-jearim A town in the territory of Judah where the Ark was kept for twenty years. It became a significant location for Israel's spiritual renewal. 3. The House of Israel Refers to the collective people of Israel who were lamenting and seeking after the LORD during this period. 4. Samuel Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Samuel was the prophet and judge during this time, leading Israel back to God. 5. The Philistines The enemies of Israel who had previously captured the Ark, symbolizing the spiritual and physical oppression Israel faced. Teaching Points The Importance of God's PresenceThe Ark symbolized God's presence, and its location in Kiriath-jearim for twenty years signifies a period of waiting and longing for God's active presence among His people. Spiritual Lament and Renewal The lamenting of Israel indicates a collective recognition of their need for God, a crucial step towards spiritual renewal and repentance. The Role of Patience in God's Timing The twenty-year period teaches us about the importance of patience and trust in God's timing for spiritual breakthroughs and deliverance. Leadership in Times of Spiritual Crisis Samuel's leadership during this time underscores the need for godly leaders who can guide people back to a right relationship with God. The Consequences of Neglecting God The initial capture of the Ark by the Philistines serves as a reminder of the consequences when God's people neglect His commands and presence. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the Ark of the Covenant represent in your personal walk with God, and how can you ensure His presence is central in your life?2. Reflect on a time when you experienced a period of waiting for God. How did this time shape your faith and relationship with Him? 3. How can the lament of the house of Israel inspire you to seek spiritual renewal in your own life or community? 4. In what ways can you demonstrate patience and trust in God's timing, especially when facing challenges or waiting for answers to prayer? 5. Consider the role of spiritual leaders in your life. How can you support and pray for them as they guide others towards God? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 6Describes the return of the Ark to Israel, setting the stage for its stay in Kiriath-jearim. 2 Samuel 6 Details the eventual movement of the Ark from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem by King David, highlighting the Ark's continued significance. Psalm 132 Reflects on the importance of the Ark and God's dwelling place among His people. Exodus 25 Provides the original instructions for the construction of the Ark, emphasizing its sacredness and role in worship.
People Abinadab, Amorites, Eleazar, Israelites, SamuelPlaces Beth-car, Bethel, Ebenezer, Ekron, Gath, Gilgal, Kiriath-jearim, Mizpah, Ramah, ShenTopics Abode, Ark, Dwelling, Jearim, Kiriath, Kiriath-jearim, Kir'iath-je'arim, Kirjathjearim, Kirjath-jearim, Lamented, Lodged, Mourned, Multiplied, Pass, Passed, Searching, Sought, Twenty, Wail, Weeping, Yea, YearnedDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 7:2Library Sermon at the Faribault Celebration of the Centennial of the Inauguration of George Washington, 1789-1889. "Then Samuel took a stone and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebeneser, saying, Hitherto hath the Lord helped us."-- 1 SAMUEL vii. 12. No words are more fitting on this Centennial day. One hundred years ago George Washington was inaugurated the first President of the United States. Words are powerless to express the grateful thoughts which swell patriot hearts. Save that people whom God led out of Egypt with His pillar of fire and His pillar of cloud, I know of no nation … H.B. Whipple—Five Sermons Three Decisive Steps Ebenezer! Ebenezer 1Sam 7:12 Faithlessness and Defeat Of the Public Fast. Emmaus. Kiriath-Jearim. Samuel Links 1 Samuel 7:2 NIV1 Samuel 7:2 NLT 1 Samuel 7:2 ESV 1 Samuel 7:2 NASB 1 Samuel 7:2 KJV 1 Samuel 7:2 Commentaries Bible Hub |