Believe it or not, memory may be our greatest asset, as well as, deficit. Let me explain.
Life is a series of events, and how we learn in and of each one, is stored in our memories. Thus, when we face new challenges, we have stored in our memory how we came through and faced the previous ones. However, that doesn’t assure us that we will weather well in our current circumstance, unless we CHOOSE, to access our memories, and glean from them.
I can’t speak for you, but I have this tendency, when facing something difficult, to allow my immediate emotions to cloud my judgement. When I do that, I create an instant fog, that overshadows my memory, and I feel, as if I’m in a place alone, trapped, which then creates fear, and sometimes, panic.
So, let me show you how to work your thoughts, and what to do, when you’re in a difficult place of doubt, uncertainty, and fear. In the first book of Chronicles, we can learn from David two key realities (1 Chronicles 16). These two key truths will propel you and keep your current situation from derailing you.
First, remember WHAT God had already done in the past, as well as, all the good He has given you. “Remember the wonders He has done” (1 Chronicles 16:12).
We’ve all been rescued, if you will, by God in the past. His miraculous hand has been in and upon our lives, even when we hadn’t asked for it. My friends, angels have been all around us, and the miracles of God have worked for us, even when we weren’t working toward Him. Thus, the first key to stepping out in faith is to remember how the Lord met you in the past.
One of the biggest mistakes of the Israelites in the Old Testament was how they constantly FORGOT how the Lord had moved on their behalf. In Exodus 16, we see that the Israelites had just been set free from captivity in Egypt yet they were murmuring. Complaining and murmuring destroys faith.
Now, I’m okay with an instant reaction, as long as it doesn’t become your long-term response. God is always for us, and we must remember that, and remember when. So, take a moment to pause. This is that good time to sleep on it. Vent, if need be, and maybe with someone(s) who are safe. But then, ventilate. Breath in and breath out His breath of life. And start thanking Him for His blood and body, for the cross, for the very breath in your lungs. Think on those things which are good, pure, and lovely (Philippians 4:8).
The second key is to remember His covenant that He has made, and all the promises He has written. “Remember His covenant forever, the promise He made, for a thousand generations” (1 Chronicles 16:15). This is why being in the Word is so essential. For when His promises are on the forefront of your mind, in a short period of time, they will come to mind. So, claim them. Take hold of them over your life and declare them until they come to pass. Prophetic words and promises from the Lord are never intended to be sat on a shelf. Wage a war with His words.
The plot of the enemy is to make you forget how the Lord made a way for you in the past and what the Lord has promised you for your future. So, maintain a thankful heart by remembering how He made a way, and grow a faithful heart by declaring His word over your future. Then, and only then, will you triumph over your current circumstance, and your faith will mature.
