Remembrance

In the biblical context, remembrance is a significant theme that underscores the importance of recalling God's past deeds, His commandments, and His covenant with His people. The act of remembrance serves as a spiritual discipline that reinforces faith, obedience, and gratitude among believers.

The Old Testament frequently emphasizes the importance of remembrance. In Deuteronomy 6:12 , Moses warns the Israelites, "be careful not to forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery." This call to remember is not merely a mental exercise but a call to live in accordance with God's will, acknowledging His past deliverance and ongoing faithfulness.

The Psalms often serve as a repository of remembrance, where the psalmists recount God's mighty works. Psalm 77:11 states, "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old." This act of recalling God's past interventions provides comfort and assurance of His continued presence and power.

In the New Testament, remembrance takes on a Christocentric focus. Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper as a means of remembrance. In 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 , Paul recounts Jesus' words: "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me... This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." Here, remembrance is a sacred act that connects believers to the redemptive work of Christ.

Praise

Praise is a fundamental aspect of worship and devotion in the Bible, characterized by the expression of reverence, adoration, and gratitude towards God. It is both a personal and communal act that acknowledges God's sovereignty, holiness, and love.

The Psalms are replete with calls to praise. Psalm 150:6 declares, "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Hallelujah!" This universal call to praise underscores the belief that all creation is designed to glorify God. Praise is not limited to favorable circumstances; it is a response to God's inherent worthiness.

In the Old Testament, praise is often linked with music and song. Instruments and voices are used to exalt God, as seen in Psalm 98:4-5 : "Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth—let your cry ring out and sing praises! Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, in melodious song with the harp."

The New Testament continues this theme, with praise being central to the life of the early church. In Ephesians 5:19-20 , Paul exhorts believers to "speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Praise is also seen as a weapon of spiritual warfare. In Acts 16:25 , Paul and Silas, imprisoned for their faith, "were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them." Their praise amidst suffering led to a miraculous deliverance, demonstrating the power of praise to transcend circumstances and invite divine intervention.

In summary, remembrance and praise are intertwined practices that sustain the believer's relationship with God. Remembrance anchors faith in God's past faithfulness, while praise elevates the heart in adoration and trust, acknowledging His present and future sovereignty.