Remember Well What God Has Done

Every pastor and ministry leader eventually faces a moment that feels too large to overcome.

Attendance drops unexpectedly. Financial pressures mount. Volunteers disappear. Community opposition increases. Staff members grow weary. Families in the church are hurting deeply. Vision seems bigger than available resources. And somewhere in the quiet moments of prayer, a troubling question arises: “How will we ever get through this?”

Moses understood this kind of fear. As Israel prepared to move into territory occupied by stronger nations, God addressed the anxiety that would naturally rise in their hearts.

“If you should say in your heart, ‘These nations are greater than I; how can I dispossess them?’ you shall not be afraid of them, but you shall remember well what the Lord your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt” Deuteronomy 7:17–18

Notice God did not rebuke them for recognizing the size of the challenge. He addressed the conclusion they were tempted to draw from it. The answer to overwhelming opposition was not self-confidence. It was remembrance of God’s faithfulness and power working on your behalf.

Don’t Forget Your Own History with God

One of the enemy’s most effective strategies is to make leaders forget the mighty acts of God already displayed in their lives and ministries. Fear magnifies present obstacles while minimizing past victories. But throughout Scripture, remembrance strengthens courage. When leaders remember God’s faithfulness, fear loses its grip.

The Lord told Israel to “remember well” what He had done. That phrase implies intentional reflection, careful consideration, and deliberate rehearsal of God’s power. Pastors and ministry leaders today must practice the same discipline.

What Should Ministry Leaders Remember?

Remember the Times God Provided When Resources Were Low

There were seasons when you did not know how bills would be paid, how the ministry would continue, or how a project would move forward, yet somehow God made a way.

A donor appeared unexpectedly. A church member stepped up at the right moment. A financial burden lifted. Provision came through avenues you could never have orchestrated yourself.

The God who provided then has not changed now.

Remember the Lives God Has Already Transformed

Think back to the marriages restored, addictions broken, prodigals returning home, salvations witnessed, baptisms celebrated, and people discipled through your ministry. You were never the source of transformation. God was.

And if He has changed lives before, He can do it again.

Remember the Doors God Opened That No One Else Could Open

There were opportunities that only divine favor could explain.

A building became available. A ministry partnership formed unexpectedly. A conversation led to breakthrough. A closed community suddenly became receptive to the Gospel. Those moments were reminders that God goes before His servants.

The same Lord who opened doors in previous seasons still holds the keys today.

Remember the Times God Sustained You Personally

Some ministry seasons were emotionally exhausting and spiritually draining. Yet somehow, God’s grace carried you through. You preached while grieving. You led while tired. You prayed while discouraged. And still, God strengthened you enough to continue the assignment.

That strength was not human endurance alone. It was the sustaining power of God.

Remember Past Victories Over Impossible Situations

Every ministry has faced moments that appeared impossible:

• A church plant that should not have survived
• A difficult transition that ultimately brought growth
• Conflict that God healed
• Outreach efforts that exceeded expectations
• Seasons where little strength produced great fruit

When David faced Goliath, he drew courage from remembering the victory God gave him overcoming the lion and the bear. Remembering well God’s past faithfulness became present confidence.

Fear Shrinks When Memory Grows

The future may still look intimidating. The challenge may still be real. But leaders who remember well God’s faithfulness are leaders who continue forward with courage.

God never asked pastors to carry ministries in their own strength. He simply calls them to trust the One who has already proven Himself faithful again and again.

The church you lead belongs to Him. The mission you steward originated with Him. The calling on your life was given by Him.

And the God who brought you through previous battles will not abandon you in this one.

A Final Encouragement for Leaders

Before making your next decision in fear, pause and remember.

Remember the prayers God has answered. Remember the doors He has opened. Remember the people He has saved. Remember the strength He has supplied. Remember the miracles you once thought were impossible.

The same God who was faithful then remains faithful now.

So, when your heart asks, “How will we ever get through this?” let Deuteronomy 7 answer clearly: “Do not fear. Remember well what the Lord your God has done.”

Your partner in His Purpose,

Ron Jutze