The duty of remembrance is repeatedly emphasized in the Bible, and especially in the book of Deuteronomy. In this book Moses addresses the Israelites who are now within sight of the Promised Land. He says to them "Thou shalt remember all the way the Lord thy God hath led thee these forty years" (Deut. 8:2).
What a mighty effect the memory can have upon us, yet how easily we forget. Moses knew that the Israelites were plagued with short memories; he reminds them that they are privileged people. They had the presence of God among them; they had seen His power, protection and provision in such stirring events as the Passover, the crossing of the Red Sea and the giving of the manna.
Moses was at pains to remind them of the providence of God, and of His benevolent care. What a wonderful thing it is that He watches over us and makes provision for us. This does not mean that we shall be free from trials, testing and troubles; we are nowhere promised immunity from such things.
We cannot always discern God's purpose at the time; we often see it only in retrospect. When we look back hereafter we shall see the reason for the rough, dark and tedious places of our earthly pilgrimage. Everything may have seemed wrong to the Israelites when God led them the long way round to the Promised Land, but there was a purpose in it.
How patient God was with His people; they were often rebellious, unfaithful, fickle and disobedient. It was a miracle of mercy that they were preserved as a nation. We too should praise God for His patience and forbearance with us, both as individuals and as a nation.