Monday, November 10, 2008

THE POWER OF REMEMBERING

Memorials are good. They cause us to focus on people and events, which mark our history and mold our lives. The Bible is full of memorials. They remind us of the great God we serve. This week we are going to look at six memorials that not only recall God’s character to our minds but also calls us to action as we live the life God desires.

MONDAY: THE PASSOVER REMINDS US OF GOD’S DELIVERANCE (Exodus 12: 1-29)

1. The Passover was to protect God’s people from the 10th plague that was going to strike Egypt. What was this plague? Who did God bring judgment on through this plague (12:11)? Why does God command them to commemorate this meal annually (12:17,24-28)? This passage reminds us that God will deliver his people? From what has God delivered you? What events, ceremonies remind you of the fact that God has delivered you from guilt etc.?

TUESDAY: THE MANNA REMINDS US OF GOD’S PROVISION (Exodus 16:1-36)

1. Why do you think God gave them only one day’s supply of manna? What lesson does that teach us about trusting God? Why did Moses command Aaron to keep some manna for the generations to come? How does it feel knowing that God wants to meet all your needs (Philippians 4:19)? What if that included “Quail pot pie” and “manna toast” every day? Would you still be thankful? What need do you have that you need to ask God to provide? Do so today?

WEDNESDAY: THE CENSERS REMIND US OF GOD’S HOLINESS (Numbers 16:1-40)

1. What complaints did Korah and his cohorts have against Moses (3,13-14)? How could this revolt undermine the Israelites success? Why did God destroy the rebels and not Aaron? What does this teach you about God’s holiness? If you have a concordance, look up the word holy in Scripture and write down three things about the holiness of God. What are ways people today disregard God’s holiness? Read verses 36-40. What was Eleazar told to do with the censers? What would this remind the Israelites of?

THURSDAY: THE STONES FROM THE JORDAN REMIND US OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS (Joshua 4:1-9)

1. For 40 years God’s people, because of their unfaithfulness, wandered in the desert. When
they reached the Promised Land, what did Joshua tell 12 men to do? Why? God keeps His promises. What has God done in your life that you can you share with your family and friends as a reminder to them and you that God is faithful? Write it down and read it to someone.

FRIDAY: “Ebenezer” reminds us that God is our Helper. (1 Samuel 7: 2-17)

1. How would you describe the spiritual condition of God’s people before the meeting at Mizpah? What role does confession of sin play in receiving God’s blessings? What role does “forsaking idols” or sacrifice have in receiving God’s blessing? Why does Samuel set up the stone (verse 12)? Have you set up and “Ebenezer” in your life? What can you do to keep track of God’s blessings in your life? Take some note cards, write in big letters one blessing/victory that God has given you and “set them up” around the house or workplace as a reminder of how God has helped you in your life.

SATURDAY: THE LORD’S SUPPER REMINDS US OF GOD’S LOVE (Luke 22:7-20)

1. Review the Passover (Exodus 12:1-13,21-28). How does Jesus’ use of the bread and wine change the emphasis of the Passover? The Passover reminded Israel of God’s deliverance from Egyptian slavery? The Lord’s Supper reminds us that Christians have been delivered as well? From what have you been delivered? Write a few sentences on what taking the Lord’s Supper teachers you about God’s love.

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