The Christian Girl Chat

By telling these false dreams, they are trying to get my people to forget me, just as their ancestors did by worshiping the idols of Baal. ~ Jeremiah 23: 27 (NLT)

Last Monday was Memorial Day in the United States, a holiday many of us don’t give much thought to. We often view it as just another day off—a break from our jobs and the busyness of life.

But this year, I found myself thinking more deeply: What is the true purpose of Memorial Day?

At its core, Memorial Day is meant to honor and remember those who gave their lives to secure the freedoms we enjoy today as U.S. citizens. If I’m being honest, I’ve rarely considered the holiday from that perspective. Growing up, Memorial Day meant barbecues, pool parties, and the unofficial start of summer.

But the true purpose is remembrance. How often do we actually pause to intentionally acknowledge the sacrifices that brought us to where we are today? Remembering the past carries immense power—it shapes our values, directs our actions, and grounds us in gratitude.

This idea of remembrance parallels how we are called to commune with God.

The Biblical Call to Remember

The concept of remembering is woven throughout Scripture:

• I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. ~ Psalm 143:5 (NLT)
• I remember your name in the night, O Lord, and keep your law. ~ Psalm 119:55 (ESV)
• 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)
• Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you. ~ 1 Corinthians 11:2 (ESV)
• “Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, ~ Isaiah 46:8-9 (ESV)

Why is remembering so important?

Just consider the Bible itself—an inspired collection of stories from different times and people, all pointing to the glory and faithfulness of God. These stories were written down so that we could remember. Every time we read Scripture, we return to these accounts, letting the memory of God’s goodness fuel our faith to move forward.

Even in my own walk with Jesus, reflection has been both humbling and uplifting. Looking back on my life often brings tears—not of sadness, but of awe. I see the hand of God gently guiding me, holding me, protecting me. I’m reminded of the depravity of my own flesh, which only magnifies the grace of the God who saved me. Remembrance is one of the most powerful ways to experience the undeniable greatness of God.

The Purpose of Remembering the Past

1. Humility – In moments when I feel pride creeping in, remembering who I truly am grounds me. Reflecting on my testimony and the truth of Scripture reminds me of my sinful nature—and of the immense power and mercy of Christ. I once heard a sermon by Voddie Baucham where he said, “Everyone prays to forget their past, but if you forget your past, then you will also forget the grace of God.” That stuck with me. Forgetting our past often leads to spiritual pride, but remembering keeps us anchored in gratitude.
2. Awe & Worship – Looking back should lead our hearts into worship. When we reflect on how God has revealed Himself—whether through His names or through personal experiences—we’re drawn into a deeper understanding of His holiness, faithfulness, love, and grace. It’s in these reflections that we begin to see the bigger picture, the divine story God is writing in our lives.
3. Trust – Remembrance fosters trust. The past is a testimony of God’s consistency and reliability. He has never failed, never lied, never given up. When we reflect on how He’s shown up before, we are reminded that we can trust Him in whatever we face today and in the days to come. It is from the past that we can be confident in our sovereign God through any situation.

This brings me back to Jeremiah 23:27. The prophet was warning the people of Judah about the false prophets who claimed to speak for God. Their false dreams and visions led people astray and caused them to forget the true God—Yahweh. When we neglect to look back at how God has revealed Himself, we become susceptible to distorted views of Him. And eventually, we risk forgetting Him altogether.

Remembrance has been a cornerstone of my relationship with Jesus Christ. Reflecting on both history and my own life reminds me of God’s greatness and grace. Remembering should never produce guilt or shame, but instead lead to unwavering gratitude and devotion.

Just as we honor the soldiers who gave their lives for our earthly freedom on Memorial Day, how much more should we remember the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who gave His life to set us free for eternity?

Let us never forget.