NEVER FORGET
Kimberly Portillo
Today's Scripture: "And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not." Deuteronomy 8:2, ESV
Theme: It is the human condition to forget; intentionally remind yourself of who God is in worship.
FORGETTING WHAT GOD HAD DONE
The Israelites forgot what God had done. They forgot the wonders and miracles they had seen with their own eyes—the ways God had delivered them and the faithfulness He had repeatedly shown. Before long, they began to turn away and sin against Him. This is why the Bible often reminds us that the Israelites had seen God’s power with their own eyes, yet they still struggled with doubt later.
I can’t imagine how the Israelites could forget what God had done after witnessing such powerful miracles and wonders. They spent many years in the wilderness, and much of that was because of their unbelief. It’s a reminder of how easily people can doubt—even after seeing God move in incredible ways.
Sadly, the human heart hasn’t changed much. We are still capable of forgetting God’s goodness just as quickly. And that’s why worship is so important.
DON’T SKIP CHURCH
When you worship, you are reminded of who God is. You remember His goodness, His faithfulness, His mercy, and the countless ways He has worked in your life. My advice is simple: don’t skip church. Corporate worship is such a vital part of a believer’s life. When you stop attending church, you are opening the door for the enemy to influence your thoughts, and he begins to destroy what God has already restored. Over time, it becomes easier not to go at all, because comfort slowly replaces conviction. I’ve watched it happen to so many people time and time again.
A MOMENT IN WORSHIP
Last year, I went through one of the hardest seasons of my life. I cannot count how many times I had witnessed incredible miracles in my life and experienced His goodness. Even though last year was difficult, I could never deny the reality of who God is. Through all the pain, God was so close. I had many moments where I could feel Him pursuing me, reminding me that I wasn’t alone. I’m convinced that the prayers of my church family carried me through that season.
I remember one moment during worship when the song “Living God” was being sung at The Cove:
I breathe in the presence of the living God
I take in the goodness of your love
I lean in closer to my Father's heart
I trust in who you say you are
You are alive, living and breathing
Here in this place, speaking and healing
Your fullness and glory is right here before me
You're the living God, the living God
Even through my pain, I lifted my hands. In that moment, it felt like God was shining a light over me. No, they were not stage lights! His presence was so thick and tangible that I couldn’t hold back my tears. I wept as I remembered the goodness of God…as I remembered what He has done in my life. The same God I had seen miraculously heal again and again was also healing my broken heart.
SURRENDERING IT ALL
There is something powerful about lifting your hands and surrendering everything to God, whether you feel angry, confused, sad, heartbroken, tired, or even joyful. He invites us to come to Him.
Worship Him for who He is, not just for what He has done. Even when we don’t see it, He is protecting us and working in ways we may never fully understand. He sees every painful season we walk through and understands what we carry. Surrender it all.
Make it Personal: What is standing in the way of your full worship of Him? What areas of your life are yet to be surrendered to Him?
Pray: Heavenly Father, Thank You for all that You have brought me out of. Thank You for saving me and for guiding my life. I worship You for who You are. You are the all-knowing, all-powerful God. Many people walk through this life without knowing You or knowing who to turn to. I am so grateful to know the Good News of Your Truth.
Help me surrender anything that keeps me from fully worshiping You. You know what is best for me. You know my life and everything I have walked through. Nothing is hidden from You. Teach me Your ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 145:9, 77:11, 105:5, 100:4
Weekly Memory Verse: "Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” Philippians 2:14, ESV