Introduction:

I. Memory is often mentioned in the Bible as a requirement for obedience.

A. The church at Ephesus is an example. (Revelation 2:5)

B. Paul tells Timothy he would be a good minister if he put the brethren in remembrance of false doctrine being taught. (1 Timothy 4:1-6)

C. We are told to eat the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:24)

II. The Israelites were warned of the consequences of forgetfulness. (Deuteronomy 4:9)

A. It could lead to a permanent loss of memory.

III. In the computer world, the amount of memory you need is dependent upon the application you are using.

IV. In the spiritual world, memory is needed to make your calling and election sure. (2 Peter 1:9-10)

Discussion:

I. I need to remember that I am a Christian living in a sinful world. (Deuteronomy 8:1-5)

A. The nation of Israel in the wilderness prefigures the church in the world.

1. We live in a world of sin and the only way out is to leave this world. (1 Corinthians 5:9-11)

B. Their wilderness wandering had a purpose. (8:2-3)

1. It was to humble and test them. (8:2)

2. It was to evaluate their heart. (8:2)

C. Remember today that our heart of faith is tested in many ways. (James 1:2; 8:3))

D. Remember that God chastens you because of His love. (8:4-5)

II. I need to remember to obey God’s commandments. (Deuteronomy 8:6-18)

A. Keeping commandments is performed by walking in His ways. (8:6)

B. Keeping commandments is performed by fearing God. (8:6)

C. Keep commandments because of where it will take you. (8:7-10)

D. Keep commandments because of where forgetfulness will take you. (8:19-20)

III. I need to remember my salvation is by God’s righteousness. (Deuteronomy 9:1-16; Romans 1:16-17)

A. The Israelites did not receive the land because of their righteousness. (9:4)

1. Do not even think in your heart that this is the reason why.

2. God gave them the land to expel the wicked and to fulfill his promise. (9:5)

B. Remember! Do not forget how you provoked God to wrath… (9:7)

1. Paul refers to himself in 1Tim. 1:16 as chief of sinners.

2. Remembering the source of salvation and being in Christ enables us to attain the resurrection. (Philippians 3:7-9)

Remember we live in a sinful world, remember to obey God and remember whose righteousness saves you.