courage by memory

There is death by chocolate, death by meeting, paint by number and...courage by memory.

Psalm 78 is a song of remembrance. This psalm lists generational testimonies that God wants to be preserved through the ages. Not just for the sake of remembering the "good old days" but as a source of encouragement for our current battles.

v. 9 Says that "the men of Ephraim, though armed with bows, turned back on the day of battle."
v. 11 gives the reason..."They forgot what he had done, the wonders He had shown them."

When we fail to recall God's faithfulness we end up forfeiting courage that is available to us.
These soldiers were armed, ready for battle, but spiritual amnesia stole their courage.

Remembering what God has done in the past has the ability to fill our hearts with faith for the present. David had to do this when he was preparing to face Goliath. Not only did he remember the Lord delivering the lion and the bear into his hands, he reminded all the doubters around him that were trying to inject him with their anxiety.

Jesus said to His disciples in Mark 8:18 "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear. And don't you remember?"

When we cannot see what God is up to and can no longer hear, we need to remember what God has done and draw strength and courage from that amazing track record.

When facing lack, remember His last act of provision in your life.
When facing sickness, remember His last touch of healing.
When facing isolation, remember His promise to never leave you.

Meditate on the victories God has already worked for you and you will find yourself more courageous to face your current enemies.

Courage by memory..try it out this week as you face your latest enemy..it's another weapon our loving Dad put in our arsenal.