We often joke about others not being able to remember things, and certainly, as we all get a little older, remembering becomes a little more difficult. But all in all, there is great value in the ability to remember. One of the most important aspects of remembering is that remembering the past helps as we walk into the future.

The following passage, found in Deuteronomy 4:9-10 (NLT), offers a clear admonition about remembering the past, “But watch out! Be very careful never to forget what you have seen the Lord do for you. Do not let these things escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren. Tell them especially about the day when you stood before the Lord your God at Mount Sinai, where he told me, ‘Summon the people before me, and I will instruct them. That way, they will learn to fear me as long as they live, and they will be able to teach my laws to their children.’ Later, in Deuteronomy 11:18-19 (NLT), God says, “So commit yourselves completely to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands as a reminder, and wear them on your forehead. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are away on a journey, when you are lying down and when you are getting up again.'”

It has been said that when we forget the past, we are doomed to repeat it. I have found that many people keep trying the same thing over and over again, expecting different results. Some have called this “insanity.” Clearly, they haven’t learned from their past mistakes and choices. 

There are several incidents in the Scriptures where individuals set up memorials to God to remember a specific event of God’s provision. We all need these in our lives as reminders of God’s love and care. When we don’t have them, we tend to forget, and when we forget, we get discouraged. Remembering helps us stay on track. Think about it.