In what ways can we remember God in our thoughts and actions daily? Ezekiel 23:35 — A Wake-Up Call “Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Because you have forgotten Me and cast Me behind your back, you must bear the consequences of your lewdness and prostitution.’ ” Israel’s judgment highlights one core issue—forgetting God. To avoid the same trap, we need tangible, everyday habits that keep Him at the forefront of mind and action. Why Remembering God Matters • God commands it (Deuteronomy 8:11). • Obedience flows from remembrance (John 14:15). • Forgetfulness leads to sin and discipline (Ezekiel 23:35). • A God-centered memory produces peace, joy, and fruitfulness (Philippians 4:6-7; Galatians 5:22-23). Practical Ways to Keep God Front and Center • Begin and end the day in Scripture – “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) • Meditate throughout the day – “This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night.” (Joshua 1:8) • Offer continual praise – “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” (Psalm 34:1) • Pray reflexively—short, frequent conversations with God rather than limiting prayer to set times (Philippians 4:6). • Obey promptly – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Serve others intentionally – “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40) • Cultivate thankfulness: verbalize gratitude for ordinary blessings; gratitude keeps God in view. • Use visible reminders – Sticky notes, phone alarms, Scripture art mirror Deuteronomy 6:6-9’s command to keep God’s words before our eyes and teach them diligently. • Speak of Him in everyday conversation; testimony cements truth in both speaker and listener. • Memorize focus verses for specific struggles; recite them when tempted or discouraged. • Share God’s works with the next generation; teaching reinforces memory (Psalm 78:4-7). Guarding Against Forgetfulness • Limit media or activities that dull spiritual sensitivity. • Identify and remove idols—anything claiming the affection that belongs to God alone. • Schedule regular solitude to listen; busyness is a common thief of remembrance. • Keep short accounts with sin through immediate confession (1 John 1:9). The Fruit of Consistent Remembrance • A lifestyle that naturally honors Christ: “Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) • Stability when trials hit, anchored by His past faithfulness. • Growth of the Spirit’s fruit—love, joy, peace, and more (Galatians 5:22-23). • A compelling witness that draws others to the God we refuse to forget. |
    |