Anchored by Remembrance

Anchored by remembrance. Deuteronomy reminds God’s people to look back with gratitude, remembering His deliverance, His commands, and the faithfulness that anchors life moving forward.

“Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath” (Deuteronomy 5:15).

Deuteronomy is a book about remembering. God commanded His people to remember their history in Egypt and how He delivered them … the Law and the experiences of previous generations … His warnings about the consequences of disobedience. Moses even reminded them about mistakes he had made.

These reminders were important as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. Yes, this was a land of abundance, but God warned that they would face false religions and tempting lifestyles. So He gave them a series of commands designed to help them remember: feasts, festivals, and Sabbath days that they were to keep … times when His people were to gather to celebrate, make offerings, and remember their past and all He had done for them.

We need these kinds of reminders in our own lives. Why? Because we so easily can forget His Word, His warnings, our own history, and all He’s done for us. And because we often get distracted by popular opinions or the pressures of life.

Spend time thinking about your history—your life. Think about what you owe to previous generations, to friends and family members, to men and women who’ve faithfully proclaimed the Word and been testimonies for the Gospel.

Pay attention to God’s Word. It has been given to warn you, instruct you, teach you, and provide the principles you need to discover God’s blessings and success in every area of your life.

Reflection Question: What has God done in your life that you need to remember?