I recently discovered that the word “remember” appears in scripture over 200 times. These references can be grouped into three main categories, each carrying valuable insights. Understanding these categories can deepen our understanding of God’s relationship with His people and the consequences of forgetting. Let’s explore them:

The first category involves God remembering something on behalf of His people. Take, for example, Genesis 9:15, where God assures Noah that He will “remember [His] covenant” not to destroy all life with a flood again. This type of remembrance isn’t God recalling something forgotten; rather, it signifies His active commitment to His people’s well-being.

The second category centers on God urging His people to remember significant events or blessings. In Deuteronomy 5:15, Moses commands the Israelites to remember their liberation from slavery in Egypt, emphasizing God’s faithfulness and love. By recalling their past, God encourages obedience to His commands, which ultimately leads to an abundant life.

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Finally, the third category is one that often trips us up. It involves stories in which individuals or groups fail to remember, leading to disastrous consequences. These accounts serve as cautionary tales that can protect us from falling victim to the same pitfalls. For instance, in 2 Kings 24, the nation of Israel forgot God’s deeds, abandoned His commands, and engaged in detestable behaviors. As a result, they faced exile, losing the protection and blessings that came with obedience.

The challenge of remembering becomes more pronounced in our busy lives. Just a few days ago, I was in a round-table conversation in which everyone was answering the same question. I looked to one of the guys at the table and asked for his answer. Immediately everyone at the table let me know that he had answered the question just moments before. I still have no recollection of that part of the conversation or his answer. It was embarrassing. Thankfully, a sincere apology repaired the situation and reminded me to be more engaged with the people I am in front of. For me, this was a moment of discomfort but for the people of Israel, their inability to remember derailed their nation for years. The truth is remembering can be a challenge, but bad things happen when we forget.

To fulfill our purpose, we must remember what God has done for us—the blessings we’ve received, the storms we’ve weathered, and the relationships He has brought into our lives all point us forward if we refuse to forget. When we fail to remember these moments or seasons, we run the risk of damaging or even derailing our calling.

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To help with this in my own life, I’ve started collecting personal stories. Whenever a memory resurfaces, I write it down in my “story file.” I now have over one hundred stories that serve as reminders of God’s work in my life. Even still, there are countless moments I’ve forgotten. I pray that God continues to bring these moments to the forefront of my mind, allowing me to celebrate and remember them. Our purpose is intertwined with our stories, and if we are to continue pursuing that purpose, it’s vital to remember and celebrate what God has done.

Today, I encourage you to take the time to remember what God has done in your life. Consider: What are some specific blessings or pivotal moments that you tend to forget? How can you incorporate intentional remembrance into your daily life to strengthen your faith and deepen your relationship with God? May we never lose sight of His faithfulness as we live out our purpose.