September 16

Looking Backward

Remember that these forty years the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness, so that He might humble you and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments. — Deut 8:2 BSB

The keynote of this chapter is “Remember!” Faith often begins without concrete evidence, but as life unfolds, each day adds the weight of its indisputable testimony. If we step out in the belief that there is an eternal and spiritual world surrounding us, we will come to such a clear assurance of it that it would be harder to doubt its existence than our own. It’s good to look back and see the path we’ve walked; it’s certain that the thread of God’s purpose has been linking together the varied moments of our lives.

Notice the alliteration in Deuteronomy 8:15-16: “Who led you” and “Who fed you.” Where God leads, He also feeds! Reflect on the past and recognize that just as God’s guidance has been sure, so has His care. There is no lack for those who let Him lead them on His chosen path.

Look back on the past! Leave behind its sins and backslidings, and rise to a new life. The trials were meant to strengthen and discipline us. The hardships revealed God’s power to deliver us in times of trouble, that we might glorify Him. The wilderness of loneliness, the fiery serpents of temptation, the manna that never failed, and the water that flowed from the Rock—these are all reminders of God’s faithfulness. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 teaches us the lesson of humility. If you’ve been given wealth, honor, or influence, do not become proud or think that it’s due to your own talents. Instead, thank God and remember that He gives the power to gain such things, and He does so with a purpose. Will you not commit yourself to serve and worship Him? As you reach the crest of the hill and descend into the unknown future, fear not. Tighten your belt, take His hand, and walk with Him to be His instrument in blessing the world.

Prayer

Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet; Lest we forget—lest we forget! Amen.