We have heard it with our ears, O God;
Psalm 44:1 NIV
our ancestors have told us
what you did in their days,
in days long ago.
The psalmist expresses something here that is very important. And something that we all too often fail to do. At least I know that I do. I live in the now and look forward to what lies ahead. But the past is not something I spend much time with. But there can be real value in remembering the past. In particular, what God has done.
Remembering
History is filled with accounts of ordinary people that God used in powerful ways. And others that He brought through the fires of trial. Reading about how God has used and provided for people in the past can be a real encouragement to me now. When I think I can’t do what God calls on me to do, I can remember David facing Goliath. Or many others who, in their weakness, faced their giants unafraid because God was with them. And I can trust that He will enable me as well.
There were some dark chapters in the past when God’s people took their eyes off of him. And we can learn from them as well. But there are many more inspiring stories that can strengthen our faith, lift us up when we are discouraged, and inspire us to greatness.
It is good to look at my own past as well. Not to dwell on failures or successes. But to remember how God has seen me through the challenges I have faced. And to remember the mountain tops, times when I have experienced His presence in a powerful way.
Pass on the stories of God’s faithfulness to the next generation. Remember the stories of those who came before us. And remember what God has done for you.
