The Daily Grace - Memory Loss

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 they 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 the specific ways God has provided for us in the past, we can change our perspective for the better. God's steadfast love endures forever! Remembering God's provision for yesterday gives hope and strength for today.