HOPE That Sustains

Our memories can be funny at times. We recall times of fun or times of hurt, and many times we store those memories in our minds. Then when something similar takes place, we pull those memories out. What is the result? We can either be encouraged by them or not. The more we pull out bad memories—those times when we remember the bad times—the more we will emphasize the negative. What is the antidote then?

Jeremiah, Old Testament prophet, shares from Lamentations 3:21-23 (NKJV) regarding memories as he recalls things in his life. “This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”

Jeremiah had to recall some memories and truth. He may have been at a low point, so he recalled—remembered—good, encouraging things. Things he had experienced in his life. He remembered God’s mercies, and how the Lord’s compassion for him and the people did not fail. In fact, he makes a strong statement that God’s compassion and mercy is new every morning. Then he wraps up his memories by recognizing God’s great faithfulness.

Notice how he headlined his memories: he recalled things to his mind and therefore he had HOPE. Herein lies the truth that will take us from despair, depression, and anxiety into hope. It’s when we recall, recite, remember all that the Lord has done for us.

As we do, we see hope ahead. We recognize His faithfulness to us, and we’re strengthened with hope as we venture into tomorrow. So, when things get tough, RECALL and REMEMBER God’s faithfulness to you. Therein is hope that will sustain you.