13Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, (2 Peter 1:10-13)
Peter’s time on earth was limited. This was possibly his last exhortation to the people he loved so much. Yet, instead of imparting one more piece of information, he reminded them of what they already knew. He used the power of their memories to stir them up.
Memory is a powerful thing. One sight, sound, or smell can trigger emotions and actions we may not have experienced in years, all because it causes us to remember. Memory is a function of our minds. Peter said, “I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance” (2 Peter 3:1). We must think to remember. It takes effort, but it’s worth it.
One of the ways the Lord told us to remember is through setting aside special days to commemorate special events. This was one of the main purposes of the Sabbath (Deut. 5:15) and feast days of the Old Covenant (Deut. 16:3). They served as constant reminders of the Lord’s blessings. This is also the purpose of the American holiday Thanksgiving. It was established specifically for reminding us of our meager beginnings and that without God’s aid, the United States of America would not exist.
Regardless of your nationality, thanksgiving should be a regular activity in your life. You need to “forget not all his benefits” (Ps. 103:2). The reason the Lord told you not to forget is because remembering His benefits keeps your faith in Him strong and effective. Also, you will forget if you don’t put forth some effort. Use this holiday to remember all the goodness of God toward you.
