Isaiah 46:9—“Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me.”

The first seven verses of this chapter expose idols as powerless burdens (Isaiah 46:1–7). It is in this context that the LORD calls His people to remember His mighty acts in history. Unlike lifeless idols that must be carried, the true God carries His people and sustains them.

Israel was tempted to trust in false gods, raising altars and groves throughout the land. God responded to Israel’s idolatry with the looming threat of exile; yet in mercy, He summoned them to remember His unrivalled greatness, before which every idol is nothing. 

God told them to “Remember the former things of old”. He directed them backwards to move them forward. By recalling His past faithfulness, they would be strengthened to trust His present sovereignty. Memory becomes a means of faith.

He then declared His absolute uniqueness and sovereign authority over all things. There is none beside Him, none equal to Him, none comparable with Him. He alone declares the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10), governing all things according to His will.

God commands us to “remember” Him and His deeds. In times of fear, confusion, or temptation, we are prone to forget who God is. We look to lesser things for security. Yet God calls us back to Himself. Remember His works. Recall His faithfulness. Rehearse His promises.

When fear or uncertainty rises, do you remember who God truly is, or do you turn to lesser things for security? Are there ‘rivals’ in your life that quietly compete with your trust in God? Let us always recall His greatness and trust Him deeply.