“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” Psalm 77:11 (ESV) “If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.” I Corinthians 3:14 (ESV)
Oh how I love all the memories we make together with our friends. Ocean breezes, mountain top views, fall festivals, birthday celebrations – oh the fun and encouragement we draw from being with others. Reminds us of the gift of true friendship and how God weaves our lives together. Reminds us of God’s faithfulness sprinkled throughout our days and reminds us of the goodness God desires to bless us with in the years to come. Memories birth great reflection and joy when we purposefully choose to rehearse them.
Memories also remind us of how far God has brought us and the victories He has orchestrated in our lives. Deep wells of gratitude surface as we count prayers answered even when “No” slayed us in the moment. Yes, even painful memories usher in light when we realize and see God’s mighty hand at work within us – transforming us day by day to be more like Him. It’s not for the faint of heart, and the enemy loves to zero our focus on the painful and challenging memories of our past. Just the thoughts of the past can trigger feelings we don’t ever desire to revisit. Yet God lovingly and gently desires to transform those hard places into renewed memories of His faithfulness. Our role is to walk courageously with God totally dependent on our memories of His never changing character.
Love these words from author and singer Tammy Trent: “Fear is loud. It reminds us of everything that could go wrong. It magnifies our weakness. It convinces us that the safest option is to stay where we are. But faith says something different. Faith says I know you’re afraid, but I’m trusting God anyway. I know I feel weak, but He is my strength.” (Quote from Where Are You Now God)
But God….absolutely love that phrase. But God desires to use all our memories to strengthen us and position us to rise up in victory for His glory. All our memories build a rich store bank of His goodness silencing the voice of the enemy. All our memories when surrendered into the hands of our loving God possess a distinct opportunity for us to grow, heal, receive and enjoy the redemption of our stories.
One final quote from Tammy’s book: “Because what once seemed like the place that broke you might actually be the place where God wants to rebuild something new.”
Sweet friends let’s cling to the rebuilding God may be doing in our lives. Let’s recount the beauty of memories with family and friends. Let’s glimpse those hard places and challenges with renewed perspective of how God is restoring and redeeming our story. Let’s never overlook the incredible memories of God’s work within us.
“Father how blessed we are to recall and remember Your goodness to us. Thank You for the gift of reflection which postures us to release hesitancy and cherish all memories as You empower us to glorify You in all chapters of our story.”
For His Glory
Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life
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