“But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings” (Hebrews 10:32 ESV).
The writer of Hebrews urges believers to recall—to bring deliberately to mind—their earlier experiences of faith and endurance. This remembering was not sentimental; it was strengthening. After they first came to Christ, these believers faced public reproach, loss of property, and persecution, yet they endured because their eyes were fixed on a greater possession in heaven. The exhortation to recall reminds us that remembering helps us endure. For we are a forgetful people, and that’s why Scripture so often commands us to remember. Israel was told to remember the Lord’s mighty acts of deliverance so they would not lose heart in the wilderness. Likewise, we are called to remember how God has been faithful in our past so that we can trust Him in our present trials.
Today is Veterans Day. Originally called Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I, it was later renamed to honor all who have served our nation for the cause of freedom. It is good to remember those who have suffered and sacrificed that we might live free. But even more, we remember the One who won the greatest victory of all—Jesus Christ, who conquered sin, death, and the grave that we might live eternally free.
When our faith feels weak and trials grow heavy, remembering God’s past faithfulness rekindles courage. Think back to when He first opened your eyes to the truth, how He carried you through hardship, how His promises held you fast. Remembering His grace in the past gives us strength to endure in the present.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for those who have served and sacrificed for our nation’s freedom. Above all, thank You for Jesus, who gave His life for our eternal freedom. Help us to remember Your faithfulness so that we may endure with steadfast hope. In Jesus’ name, amen.