The memory is a fascinating thing. It's fun to remember things like this...
And like this...
Memory can be such a wonderful thing. God gave us a memory for the same reason He gave us other abilities: to bring glory and honor to Him.
A fine example of that can be found in the books of Deuteronomy when Moses is addressing the Israelites with a review of their history and purpose. The disobedient and rebellious generation had died out, and Moses, just before he died, reminded this new generation of things that had happened when they were only children.
He says things like, "Your eyes have seen what the Lord did at...."(Deut. 4:3)
"Remember the day..."(Deut. 4:10)
"Take care, lest you forget..."(Deut. 4:23)
"Remember well what the Lord your God did..."(Deut. 7:18)
"Remember how the Lord your God led you..."(Deut. 8:2)
"Remember the Lord your God...."(Deut. 8:18)
All of these were in addition to the special feasts of remembrance set up by the Lord!
Why does Moses remind them of all of these things?
Well, REMEMBER how quickly the previous generation of Israelites forgot God's provision for them?
I can be like that too. So many times, God has provided just what I needed, sometimes materially and sometimes spiritually or otherwise, and yet when I am in need again, I don't remember. I forget to praise Him for His past provision. I forget that His resources are endless. I forget the promises of His Word. I forget that if I never get anything else in this life it's okay, because through Christ, He has saved me from the eternal punishment which I deserved.
I forget, and I am self-centered.
This is one reason I journal. Even if you don't consider yourself a writer, keep a record of God's provision in your life, from salvation to the very least blessing (if ever there was such a thing). Perhaps you have an extraordinary memory; I would still suggest that you write it down somewhere, for it may be a blessing for your children to read after you are gone. It is our duty as parents to teach these things to our children, just as the Israelites were to teach their children (Deut. 6:4-9). Encourage them to record God's blessings as well! This will surely help instill a grateful heart.
One more thought...
Our ability to remember can serve us well or do us harm. It enables us to rejoice in Christ, but if used for our own gain, it can enable us to hold grudges and serve ourselves. Like every other gift that God has given us, it is intended to glorify Him. Walking in the Spirit means that we use the wonderful gift of remembering to know more about His goodness and His provision. It is how we can, through His Spirit, be "anxious for nothing" and not worry about tomorrow may bring.
Of course, there are some things that I want to forget. But God, by His grace, can use even those things to renew my mind and help me turn away from sin.
So today, when you face doubt, discouragement, frustration or fear, Remember. Remember when He has delivered you from such things. Think specifically. And if you just can't bring it to mind, remember the cross. Remember Christ. Remember that He who was sinless suffered the shame in your place.
For truly, that is all we need.
1 comment :
Well said my daughter!
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