Memory and Meditation

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits. Psalm 103:2
Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD. Psalm 104:34

What we choose to remember and what we choose to meditate upon are important. God knew the necessity of purposefully bringing to mind the right things. Time and time again we are told in Scripture to remember the things God has done for us. Two benefits that come from this are gratitude and encouragement. You cannot read through the Psalms for very long without formulating a list of God’s graciousness in your life.

But often times we become consumed by the things we see, feel, and experience. We spend countless hours rehearsing the wrong things in our minds until we find ourselves discouraged, frustrated, and defeated. Our thoughts are powerful….so are our words. Ask yourself what it is that you spend most of your time thinking about. Would the two verses above describe them or stand in stark contrast to them?

Have you ever asked God to bring to your mind the many things He has done for you? It is hard to bless God when we can’t recall any of His benefits. And it is hard to be glad in the Lord when what we choose to meditate on isn’t pleasing to Him. It is for our benefit that we align our thoughts, memories, and meditation with His Word and His acts.

David did a quick “grocery list” of some of the benefits he did not want to forget. He described God as the One who pardons our sins, heals our diseases, redeems us from the pit, crowns us with loving kindness and compassion, and satisfies us with good things. A quick read through of the Psalms reminds us of God’s protection, provision, direction, love, and thoughtful attention.
It is essential that we take the qualities listed for us and personalize them. For instance, when we come to a verse that speaks of God’s protection, stop a minute and recall a time when God’s protection of you was evident. Ask God to show you times He gave you direction, provided for specific needs, showered you with love and attention, and answered specific prayers. You’ll be amazed at the recall He gives you.

Father, there is so much to remember about You. Steer my thoughts in that direction today! Amen!