The concept of remembering God's law is a central theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the necessity of keeping God's commandments at the forefront of one's life. This remembrance is not merely an intellectual exercise but a call to live in obedience and faithfulness to God's revealed will.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the importance of remembering God's law is repeatedly underscored. The Shema, found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, is a foundational passage that commands the Israelites to love the LORD with all their heart, soul, and strength. It instructs them to keep God's commandments on their hearts, to teach them diligently to their children, and to talk of them in daily life. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 states, "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

The book of Psalms also highlights the significance of remembering God's law. Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, is a profound meditation on the beauty and necessity of God's statutes. Psalm 119:11 declares, "I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You." This verse illustrates the protective power of internalizing God's law to guard against sin.

Prophetic Reminders

The prophets frequently called the people of Israel back to the remembrance of God's law. Jeremiah 31:33 speaks of a new covenant where God promises, "I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people." This prophetic vision points to an intimate relationship with God, facilitated by an internalized understanding of His law.

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ reaffirms the importance of God's law. In Matthew 5:17-19 , Jesus states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." He emphasizes that the law remains relevant and that those who practice and teach it will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the role of the law in the life of believers. In Romans 7:12 , he writes, "So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good." Paul acknowledges the law's role in revealing sin and guiding believers toward righteousness.

Practical Implications

Remembering God's law involves more than rote memorization; it requires a heart posture of obedience and reverence. James 1:22-25 exhorts believers to be doers of the word and not hearers only, warning against self-deception. The passage likens those who forget God's law to someone who looks at their face in a mirror and immediately forgets what they look like.

The practice of remembering God's law is also a communal responsibility. The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). This communal aspect underscores the importance of encouraging one another to live according to God's commandments.

Spiritual Benefits

Remembering God's law brings spiritual benefits, including wisdom, peace, and prosperity. Psalm 1:1-3 describes the blessedness of the one who delights in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. Such a person is likened to a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season and prospering in all they do.

In summary, the importance of remembering God's law is woven throughout the biblical narrative, calling believers to a life of obedience, reflection, and community. This remembrance is vital for spiritual growth and alignment with God's purposes.