Therefore they called these days Purim after the name of Pur. And because of the instructions in this letter, both what they had seen in this regard and what had happened to them, the Jews established and made a custom for themselves and for their descendants and for all those who allied themselves with them, so that they would not fail to celebrate these two days according to their regulation and according to their appointed time annually. So these days were to be remembered and celebrated throughout every generation, every family, every province and every city; and these days of Purim were not to fail from among the Jews, or their memory fade from their descendants. (Esther 9:26-28)
The Hebrew Scriptures are full of stories that recount God’s faithfulness. In those days, people made it a priority to write things down as a testimony to future generations of what God did in and through their lives. In addition to writing things down, they often set aside days, months, even years to celebrate their most cherished memories of those important events. I read about one of those events in Esther yesterday, and was reminded of how important it is for me to “remember” the many things God has done in and through my life over the years. Too often I see only the obstacles ahead of me, completely forgetting how many times God has shown Himself faithful in the past.
Moses said to the people, “Remember this day in which you went out from Egypt, from the house of slavery; for by a powerful hand the LORD brought you out from this place. . . “ (Exodus 13:3).
“You shall remember all the way which the LORD your God has led you in the wilderness these forty years . . .” (Deuteronomy 8:2)
“Remember the days of old, Consider the years of all generations. Ask your father, and he will inform you, your elders, and they will tell you.” (Deuteronomy 32:7)
The scriptures instruct us to “remember” so that we will not lose heart when we face the inevitable difficulties of life. Even writer of Hebrews emphasized this point: “But remember the former days . . . do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.” (Hebrews 10:32) But the scriptures also tell us that God remembers. He never forgets the things we have done in His name, or the times we have remained faithful, even when it’s been hard. Amazing: The God of the universe remembers our faithfulness (which is so short-lived in comparison to His), yet we have such a hard time remembering His faithfulness to us.
But Zion said, “The LORD has forsaken me, and the Lord has forgotten me.” Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.” (Isaiah 49:14-16)
Take a few moments today to remember. Think about the many things God has done in and through your life over the years, and be encouraged. The same God who delivered Israel out of slavery, is the same God who is able to deliver us. The God who has the power to raise the dead, is the same God who will raise us. Remember His faithfulness, and ask Him for the grace to stay faithful to Him, no matter what.
I shall remember the deeds of the LORD; surely I will remember Your wonders of old. (Psalm 77:11)
“Remember the former things long past, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me.” (Isaiah 46:9)
“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4)
