In what ways can we avoid forgetting God's works in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Psalm 78:7: “that they should put their confidence in God, not forgetting His works, but keeping His commandments.” Psalm 78 recounts Israel’s history of watching God split seas, drop manna, and topple enemies—then slipping into doubt the moment hardships returned. Verse 7 stands like a neon sign: remember, obey, hope. Why Remembering Matters • Memory fuels obedience. When God’s past faithfulness is fresh, trust comes easier (Deuteronomy 7:17-19). • Forgetfulness breeds rebellion. Psalm 78:11: “They forgot what He had done, the wonders He had shown them.” • Hope rises from remembrance. Lamentations 3:21-23 shows Jeremiah turning from despair to hope by recalling the Lord’s mercies. Practical Ways to Keep God’s Works in View • Daily Scripture intake – Read with a highlighter, marking every work of God you meet. – Recite Psalm 103:2 aloud: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds.” • Verbal testimony – Share a fresh answer to prayer at the dinner table or with a coworker (Psalm 105:1). – Keep a running family “Ebenezer list” on the fridge—dates and details of God’s help. • Tangible markers – Journal God’s interventions; reread on tough days (1 Chronicles 16:12). – Create visual reminders: a stone on your desk, a photo, a verse card—modern memorial stones like Joshua 4. • Rhythms of celebration – Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly: “Do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19). – Set annual family traditions tied to God’s deliverances—spiritual anniversaries of answered prayers. • Songs of remembrance – Fill playlists with truth-laden hymns and worship songs; singing drives truth deeper than talking (Colossians 3:16). • Community accountability – Small-group check-ins: “Where did you see God work this week?” – Invite trusted friends to call out drift when they see forgetfulness creeping in (Hebrews 3:13). Guardrails Against Forgetfulness • Beware prosperity-induced amnesia: “When you eat and are satisfied… be careful that you do not forget the LORD” (Deuteronomy 6:12). • Fight busyness; margin allows reflection. Even Jesus withdrew to remember His Father’s mission (Mark 1:35). • Replace grumbling with gratitude; complaint erases memory, thanksgiving etches it deeper (Philippians 2:14-16). Daily Rhythm of Remembrance Morning – Thank God for one specific past mercy before requests begin. Midday – Pause alarms on your phone labeled “Recall His Works” with a verse snippet. Evening – Record one way you noticed God’s hand today. Pray verses back to Him. Weekly – Sabbath rest: linger over larger themes of His faithfulness, teach them to the next generation (Deuteronomy 4:9). Seasonally – Review journals, celebrate milestones, adjust goals in light of His track record. Results of Consistent Remembrance • Steadier confidence: “I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works” (Psalm 143:5). • Quick obedience: memory makes His commands personal, not abstract (John 14:15). • Contagious hope: recalling God’s deeds invites others to trust Him, too (1 Peter 3:15). Hold His works close, keep His commandments near, and hope in Him will never run dry. |