Remembrance

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine.   – Philippians 1:3-4

Take a moment and scan your relational history. Who stands out? You probably have memories of both those who were loving and selfless and others who were inconsiderate and selfish. Interestingly, modern science has confirmed what you likely know. Painful or negative words or events are easier to remember than positive ones.

The apostle Paul wrote two-thirds of the New Testament, and he classically starts his letters in joyous remembrance of his recipients. Mostly written to fledgling congregations in the Greek East struggling to live out their new Christian faith, he reminds them of their special bond together. He often had the difficult task of correcting their errors in doctrine or behavior, yet because he reminded them of how much he longed for their blessing, his message was received from a heart of love rather than criticism.

Words form the structure of every relationship and event in history, from the creation of the universe to miraculous healings, to every word you whisper in prayer. Words move God, people, and nations. Although communication today is abbreviated and to the point, words are no less powerful now than at any time in the past. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).   

Use your words, as Paul did, to encourage others. Remind them of God’s blessings throughout U.S. history and His work in the nation, even though there are things that need to be changed today. Pray that leaders will adopt a habit of remembering the good America has done even as they try to make corrections or improvements. Ask that many leaders accept God’s Word as their source and guide for decision–making.