by Martha June

“But the counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

John 14:26

In talking with my Mom one random evening, she said something that has stuck with me for almost two years. For context, we were discussing the Old Testament. And in that discussion, she said something like this –

“All throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites were told to observe different feasts, celebrations, and traditions. All to remember what God had done for them.”

This idea, though obvious, had not settled in my heart until that moment. God wanted his people to remember Him.

She was right, and I am stunned that it took me this long to realize something so simple.

Remembering.

What we remember and the context of our memories is critical regarding the war on our minds. I will be the first to admit that the path my memory walks frequently is those moments where I felt undue pain and injustice, or negative feelings in general. And that path? It leads directly to bitterness. This is directly contrary to the Bible.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received from me, or seen in me-put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Phillipians 4:8

Around this time, I was gifted a book arguing the importance of preaching the gospel to yourself daily. In a sense, it is about training your mind and heart to fix your eyes and heart daily on Christ.

The Bible teaches that genuine love in my heart for God is generated by an awareness of His love for me, and nowhere is the love of God more clearly revealed than in the gospel

The Gospel Primer

Guess what? Every single time I decide not to walk down that old dark memory lane and I choose to dwell on the light of God’s character and kindness – specifically through the gospel. My heart and mind shift in a way that brings joy to my soul.

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good pleasing and perfect will.”

Romans 12:2

Once your heart and mind realize the greatness of knowing God and remembering his personal intercession in your life. Anything troubling you seems easier to bear.

We can be like the Israelites – quick to forget God’s intervention in our lives. My challenge to you (as well as me) is to be quick to remember what God has done for you. In the gospel or otherwise.

Go back to the moments that God showed himself to you personally, and go there often.

Sincerely,

Martha June