GOD DOES NOT FORGET
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Isaiah 49:15
Supporting Texts: 1 Samuel 1:9-20, Psalm 56:8, Lamentations 3:22-23, Hebrews 6:10, Romans 8:38-39
INTRODUCTION:
Life often brings seasons of hardship, waiting, and unanswered prayers that can make us doubt if God truly remembers us. During these difficult times, the feeling of being forgotten or overlooked can weigh heavily on our hearts. However, God’s Word gives us an unshakable assurance that He never forgets His children. Isaiah 49:15 beautifully illustrates God’s unfailing remembrance by comparing it to a mother’s love—so deep and natural that even if a mother forgets her child, God will never forget His people.
The story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:9-20 powerfully reveals how God’s remembrance works. Hannah was deeply distressed because she was barren and longed for a child. She cried out to God with fervent prayer, trusting that He had not forgotten her despite years of waiting. God answered her heartfelt prayers, granting her Samuel, who would become a great prophet. This example encourages us that God actively remembers and intervenes in the lives of those who seek Him faithfully.
Knowing that God does not forget empowers believers to remain hopeful and patient, even in times of silence and waiting. It reminds us that God’s remembrance is not passive but full of love, purpose, and divine intervention designed to bring breakthrough and restoration.
1. GOD’S REMEMBRANCE IS CONSTANT AND PERSONAL
God’s memory of us is unchanging and intimately personal, assuring us of His unfailing presence.
a) God’s love is deeper than human love (Isaiah 49:15):
Even if a mother forgets her child, God’s love for us surpasses all human bonds and is everlasting.
b) He carefully records every tear and prayer (Psalm 56:8):
God keeps a meticulous account of our sorrows and petitions, showing His deep concern for us.
c) His mercies are renewed every day (Lamentations 3:22-23):
God’s remembrance is continual, providing fresh grace and hope each morning.
d) He honors the work and faith of His people (Hebrews 6:10):
God does not forget the love and service shown in His name; He is just and faithful.
Biblical Example: Hannah’s persistent prayers were answered because God had not forgotten her (1 Samuel 1:9-20).
The constant and personal remembrance of God assures us that no matter what we face, we are always in His loving thoughts and care.
2. GOD REMEMBERS IN THE MIDST OF WAITING
Waiting can test our faith, but God’s remembrance sustains and strengthens us during these seasons.
a) Waiting refines our faith and character (James 1:3-4):
The period of waiting develops perseverance and matures our trust in God’s promises.
b) God’s timing is perfect and purposeful (Ecclesiastes 3:1):
Every season, including waiting, has a divine purpose and appointed time.
c) Hope sustains us while waiting (Psalm 27:14):
We are encouraged to wait patiently for the Lord, knowing He is faithful.
d) God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9):
His delays are not denials but acts of mercy to bring salvation and blessing.
Biblical Example: Hannah’s years of waiting ended with God’s perfect answer (1 Samuel 1:9-20).
Although waiting can be difficult, God’s active remembrance during these times brings strength and assurance that our breakthrough is near.
3. GOD REMEMBERS OUR PAIN AND SUFFERING
God’s remembrance extends deeply into our trials, pain, and moments of despair.
a) He gathers our tears in His bottle (Psalm 56:8):
Every tear we shed is precious to God and carefully noted.
b) God understands our grief and sorrow (Psalm 34:18):
He is close to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit.
c) Our suffering is never wasted (Romans 8:28):
God works all things together for good for those who love Him.
d) God’s comfort is abundant in our pain (2 Corinthians 1:3-4):
He comforts us so we can comfort others with the same comfort.
Biblical Example: Hannah’s deep sorrow over barrenness was known and comforted by God (1 Samuel 1:9-20).
God’s remembrance is not distant but compassionate, reaching into our pain to comfort and bring healing.
4. GOD REMEMBERS TO DELIVER AND RESTORE
God’s remembrance results in His powerful intervention, deliverance, and restoration in our lives.
a) He remembers His covenant and promises (Psalm 105:8-10):
God remains faithful to His promises to bless and deliver His people.
b) God hears and rescues those who call on Him (Psalm 107:13):
When we cry out, God responds with timely deliverance.
c) He restores all that was lost or stolen by the enemy (Joel 2:25):
God’s restoration surpasses what was taken, bringing fullness and joy.
d) God fights on behalf of His people (Exodus 14:13-14):
He is our defender, ensuring victory over every trial.
Biblical Example: Hannah’s answered prayer brought forth Samuel, who changed the destiny of Israel.
God’s remembrance is a source of hope, as it leads to deliverance, restoration, and victory over adversity.
5. GOD REMEMBERS FOR ETERNAL PURPOSES
God’s remembrance is purposeful, working to fulfill His eternal plans for our lives.
a) God calls us for His divine destiny (Jeremiah 29:11):
He remembers us to bring us into His plans of hope and a future.
b) Our remembrance is tied to His glory (Ephesians 1:11):
God orchestrates all things according to His will and purpose.
c) He remembers us to strengthen our faith and character (Romans 5:3-5):
Trials develop perseverance, character, and hope that do not disappoint.
d) God’s eternal love assures us of our place in His kingdom (Romans 8:38-39):
Nothing can separate us from His love, confirming His everlasting remembrance.
Biblical Example: Samuel’s birth was not just for Hannah’s joy but for God’s purpose for Israel.
God’s remembrance is intentional, leading us into His divine purposes and eternal glory.
CONCLUSION:
The assurance that God does not forget is a profound encouragement to all believers. In moments of pain, waiting, or doubt, we must remember that God’s remembrance is constant, personal, and filled with compassion. Like a loving mother who never forgets her child, God’s heart is always inclined toward us, working behind the scenes to bring about our breakthrough.
Your trials, prayers, and faith are all precious in His sight. God’s remembrance brings deliverance, restoration, and eternal purpose into your life. Trust Him fully and be confident that His timing and plans for you are perfect. You are never forgotten, and His faithfulness will never fail.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to rest in Your constant remembrance of my life.
2. Father, strengthen my faith during seasons of waiting.
3. I declare that God sees and remembers every tear I have shed.
4. Lord, bring swift deliverance to every area of my life.
5. I receive divine restoration according to Your promises.
6. Father, help me to trust Your perfect timing.
7. I ask for renewed hope and patience as I wait on You.
8. Lord, empower me to encourage others with Your faithfulness.
9. I declare that my testimony will glorify Your name.
10. Thank You, Lord, for never forgetting me or abandoning me.
