Erin Church Devotional: Making a Bethel (House of God) in our Hearts

Genesis 28:19 He called that place Bethel, though the city used to be called Luz.

I’ve always loved the story of Jacob because he is just so human. He tricks his brother and father. He ends up being a fugitive. He outsmarts his father-in-law and ends up becoming one of the most important people in the Bible. I guess if Jacob were alive today, he would either be the most successful broker on Wall Street, or even the front runner in a presidential campaign!

In this part of his life, he is fleeing the wrath of his brother. Jacob doesn’t want to be killed, so he high-tails it out of town and runs away as fast as he can. When he eventually stops to rest, he has nowhere to stay but out in the open. And using a stone as a pillow does not sound as though he was in cozy surroundings.

In the midst of all his anxiety, Jacob receives a glorious vision from God. This assures him that God is with Jacob, and that he shall overcome his troubles. Fear is replaced with faith; helplessness is changed into hope. Jacob is so delighted with God’s presence that he makes the place into a shrine, and promises to give a tithe of all that he has to God. His relief and thankfulness are sincere. His devotion and dedication to God are strengthened.

We all go through troubled times and we each entertain fears and worries. In the midst of our crises, God wants to be our strength, savior and deliverer. When we turn over our concerns to Him, He helps us through the worst of times. When we make a Bethel (house of God) in our hearts, He supports and guides us. And, after the crisis has ended, we should make and take time to thank God in a fitting and appropriate manner.

Prayer: Lord God, thank You for the stories of faith from people like Jacob in the past. Thank You for their ability to depend upon You when they were weak, lost, and fearful. Grant us Your blessing of assurance and presence in the midst of our own troubles and concerns. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.