Remembering can be a catch-22. Sometimes, remembering brings back good memories; sometimes it brings back bad memories. Now, we need both types of memories – good memories and bad/uncomfortable memories. But, calling back the right ones at the right time can be tricky. Sometimes, we remember the wrong things or forget to recall the necessary memories. Other times, we misremember events or our role in the event. Remembering is a hard skill to master. This is especially true in our spiritual walk. Satan tries to use our own memories against us. So, it is important that we learn to best utilize our memories.
God gives us the key to mastering the skill of godly remembering through the prophet Isaiah.
In Isaiah 46, God warns the Israelites not to be tempted to follow after the idols of other nations like the Babylonians. He asked “With whom will you compare me or count me equal? To whom will you liken me that we may be compared?” To help them answer this question, God tells them:
Remember the former things, those of long ago;
I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me.
I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
Remembering all the things from the past – from long ago – was meant to help the Israelites not be tempted to turn away from God. God reminds them that He created the world. Nature and its living creatures (including man) fulfill His purpose. Only God’s purpose stands the test of time. Only God can do all that He pleases at all times. Only God knows the beginning from the end. There is no other God like God.
Why is this the foundation of remembering?
If we remember that God is above all, that His purposes always prevail, and that He can do whatever He pleases, then nothing we face in this life should permanently discourage us or lead us to turn away from Him.
We must remember that God was before ancient times and will remain God for all eternity. #Remember
Adonai's Appeal 