“I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.”
The Feast
This psalm opens in genuine distress, the psalmist troubled, unable to sleep, questioning whether God’s mercy has failed. It is specifically in the middle of this distress that he arrives at this deliberate resolution: I will remember, a choice made precisely when remembering does not come naturally or easily, but requires genuine, effortful decision.
This is worth noticing because remembering God’s past faithfulness is often easiest exactly when it is least needed, in seasons of comfort and ease when gratitude flows naturally. This psalm models something harder and more valuable, deliberate remembrance chosen specifically in the middle of genuine distress, when it does not come easily at all.
Notice the double emphasis: I will remember... surely I will remember, repeated for weight, suggesting this resolution required real, deliberate effort to actually hold onto, not a passing, easy thought quickly abandoned once distress returned, but a determined choice repeated and reinforced.
Whatever distress you may currently be carrying, consider today making this same deliberate choice, not waiting until circumstances feel easier before remembering God’s past faithfulness, but choosing it now, precisely because it does not come easily, the way this psalmist chose it in the middle of his own genuine trouble.
Keep the Feast
- Notice any current distress that has made remembering God’s faithfulness feel difficult.
- Choose deliberately today to remember, precisely because it does not come easily right now.
- Recall one specific work of the LORD, repeating it to yourself for emphasis, as this psalm does.
Prayer
Lord, in the middle of my own distress, I will remember your works. Surely I will remember your wonders of old, even when remembering does not come easily right now. Amen.
Carry this today
Remembering chosen in distress is more valuable than remembering that comes easily.