“To retain in the memory; keep in mind; remain aware of” – this is the definition of the word remember. As I look over my blogs of the past 52 weeks I see words I use often, words like “reminded” and “remembering”. When I started writing this blog one year ago I had no real idea of where my thoughts would take me. I now realize they have taken me home – back to my childhood and youth where much of who I am and what I believe was established. My observations of life and faith are deeply rooted in the lessons learned from my family and Christian mentors who poured the love of Jesus into my life.
Recently, I saw a photo of a fallen tree with green, leafy branches reaching upward to the life-giving warmth of the sun. Despite badly damaged roots, the tree managed to drink deeply of the moisture and nutrients in the soil and with sheer determination seek out the source of life. I want to be that tree. When I fall and feel as though I can’t go on, I want to remember to dig deep into the roots of my faith and, with confidence in the One who gives life, raise my face toward the Son. I want to be reminded of His greatness, His goodness, and His love for me. I want to remember.
In the Bible, God encourages us to remember His promises …
- I am your strength.
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13 (NLT)
- I will never leave you.
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6 (NLT)
- I have plans for you.
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)
- I hear your prayers.
You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14 Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! – John 14:13-14 (NLT)
- I will fight for you.
The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” – Exodus 14:14 (NLT)
- I will give you peace.
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. – John 14:27 (NLT)
- I always love you.
God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. – 1 John 4:9-10 (NLT)
I pray today to keep in mind, remain aware of, and remember the words of Isaiah 26:3 – You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
Simple Faith 
It’s hard to believe that it has been a year. I get inspired from every message I read from you. Continue the great work.
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Such important truths.
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