Sometimes
when we face times of trouble, we may get spiritual amnesia and forget the
grace of God. But a good way of reestablishing a thankful heart is to set aside
undistracted time and deliberately remember God’s past provisions for us and
give thanks.
When
the children of Israel found themselves in a barren, hot desert, they developed
memory loss about the grace of God. They began to wish they were back in Egypt,
enjoying all its foods (Ex. 16:2-3) and later complained about their water
supply (17:2). They had forgotten the mighty acts of God in their deliverance
and how He had showered them with wealth (12:36). They were dwelling on their
current circumstances and forgetting God’s gracious past provision.
The
psalmist challenges us: “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His
mercy endures forever” (Ps. 118:1). The word mercy means “steadfast love.” It
refers to God’s faithfulness. He has promised to be present always to care for
His children.
By remembering specific ways God has provided for us in the past, we can change our perspective for the better. God’s steadfast love endures forever!