Remember, and Be Revived

“I cry aloud to God,
    aloud to God, and he will hear me.
In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord;
    in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
    my soul refuses to be comforted…

I consider the days of old,
    the years long ago.
I said, ‘Let me remember my song in the night;
    let me meditate in my heart.’
    Then my spirit made a diligent search…

I said, ‘I will appeal to this,
to the years of the right hand of the Most High.’

I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
I will ponder all your work,
and meditate on your mighty deeds.
Your way, O God, is holy.
What god is great like our God?
You are the God who works wonders;
you have made known your might among the peoples.
You with your arm redeemed your people.

When the waters saw you, O God,
    when the waters saw you, they were afraid;
    indeed, the deep trembled.
The clouds poured out water;
    the skies gave forth thunder;
    your arrows flashed on every side.
The crash of your thunder was in the whirlwind;
    your lightnings lighted up the world;
    the earth trembled and shook.
Your way was through the sea,
    your path through the great waters;
    yet your footprints were unseen.
You led your people like a flock
    by the hand of Moses and Aaron.” Psalm 77:1-2,5-6,10-20

“God my King is from of old,
    working salvation in the midst of the earth.” Psalm 74:12

There are times in the day of trouble and the midst of storms it is not even on our radar to get any perspective. We’re groping in the dark to get footing in the slamming wind. We’re treading water, choking for air, trying to survive, and it’s impossible to see any periphery or long view. But it’s there, and our Lord painted it, and still holds the brushes, and bids us come consider.

Look up, He calls, seek Me and bring Me your cares. And look back, He urges, remember how I’ve worked in the past and brought you to this place. In your dark trouble and melancholy, He prompts, remember bright blooms, and your song. In your immediate, remember My years, My wonders of old. In your helplessness, remember My might, and in your weakness, My strong arm. I waste nothing, and will redeem. (Isaiah 40:28-31; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

Our God is more than a match for our every want and need. And once we are revived, we have a fresh and long perspective to stir gratitude and action. We recognize anew and sieze the privilege of passing on the stories of God’s faithful and mighty deeds to the next generation, that they, too, can take heart. (Psalm 78:1-4)

What discipline can we implement to seek the Lord with hungry intention? Deliberate praying, meditating, and journaling help bring His attributes and gracious works to mind. Pondering His greatness and might is sure to burst forth in glorious songs of amazement and praise.

Lord, captivate my heart and spirit. Fix my mind on Thee and keep me exalting You for Your wonderful deeds and plans formed of old, faithful and sure. There is none like You! (Isaiah 25:1)