In the biblical context, the concept of establishing reminders is deeply rooted in the practice of remembering God's commandments, His mighty works, and His covenant with His people. Throughout Scripture, God instructs His people to set up physical and spiritual reminders to ensure that His laws and deeds are not forgotten by future generations.

Old Testament Examples

1. Memorial Stones: One of the most prominent examples of establishing reminders is found in the book of Joshua. After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, God commanded Joshua to set up twelve stones as a memorial. Joshua 4:6-7 states, "Let this be a sign among you, so that when your children ask in time to come, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever."

2. Feasts and Festivals: The Israelites were also instructed to observe various feasts and festivals as reminders of God's deliverance and provision. For instance, the Passover was established as a perpetual reminder of God's deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12:14). These observances served as annual reminders of God's faithfulness and His covenant with His people.

3. Phylacteries and Tassels: In Deuteronomy 6:8-9 , God commands the Israelites to bind His commandments as a sign on their hands and as frontlets between their eyes, and to write them on the doorposts of their houses and on their gates. This practice was intended to keep God's laws constantly before them, serving as a daily reminder of their commitment to Him.

New Testament Applications

1. The Lord's Supper: In the New Testament, Jesus established the Lord's Supper as a reminder of His sacrifice. In 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 , Paul recounts Jesus' words: "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.'" The Lord's Supper serves as a continual reminder of Christ's atoning work and the new covenant established through His blood.

2. Teaching and Preaching: The apostles and early church leaders emphasized the importance of teaching and preaching as a means of establishing reminders of the gospel message. In 2 Peter 1:12-13 , Peter writes, "Therefore I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of my body." This underscores the necessity of continual reminders to remain steadfast in faith.

Spiritual Significance

Establishing reminders is not merely a ritualistic practice but serves a profound spiritual purpose. It helps believers to remain anchored in their faith, to recall God's past faithfulness, and to live in obedience to His commands. Reminders act as spiritual markers that guide believers in their daily walk with God, ensuring that His presence and promises are ever-present in their lives.

Practical Application

In contemporary Christian practice, believers are encouraged to establish personal and communal reminders of God's work in their lives. This can include regular participation in communion, personal devotions, Scripture memorization, and the observance of Christian holidays. These practices help to cultivate a heart of gratitude and a life oriented towards God's purposes.