Remember...

"I am always so glad when you  bring visitors from America to see what we're doing here with the University Discipleship Movement.  I get to share our history, and I, myself, am reminded of how the Lord has brought us from three men meeting in a dorm room for Bible study to where we are today. And it helps renew my passion for this ministry." -Kennedy to Josh the other day.

Kennedy has discovered a powerful biblical principle that has been popping up everywhere in my current Bible reading plan (check out the Autumn Harvest Bible Challenge here). Remember. Just one simple word. One powerful tool in the hands of the righteous.

Deuteronomy begins with Moses recounting for God's people all the ways He has led them, remembering for himself all that God has done for them.  The Israelites are finally about to enter the promised land, and Moses knows the dangers they will face- not the dangers of enemies, or famine... but of prosperity. He wants them to remember how God led them through the wilderness for forty years, how He provided for their every need, how He rescued them from Egypt... so that they continue to rely on God instead of bowing to idols of self and ease.

"When you have eaten and are full, then you shall bless the Lord your God for the good land which He has given you. Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgements, and His statutes which I command you today..." -Deuteronomy 8:10-11

 Keys to Remembering

• Tell the stories of God's provision, faithfulness and answers to prayer often.
• Write them down.  Keep a gratitude journal. 
• Pass them on to the next generation. Don't just remember alone. 
• Don't leave out the dark parts, that's where God shines brightest!
• Start anchoring yourself to a promise during the dark times now, so you can declare His faithfulness in the future. 

May those who come after us echo the Psalmist who said, 

"We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, the deeds You did in their days, in days of old: You drove out the nations with Your hand, but them You planted; You afflicted the peoples, and cast them out. For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword, nor did their own arm save them; but it was Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, because You favored them." -Psalm 44:1-3 

And may they know God as their very own, not just with second-hand faith.  

Would you remember a piece of your story here in the comments?  Would love to hear how He has shown Himself mighty and faithful in your life!