For the first number of years in my life I wasn’t able to speak in a way that was understandable. I was just able to say some sounds. The doctors have never come to a definite reason as to why my speech is the way it is. When I was very young I began to learn sign language to be able to communicate. Then as I grew older I used picture books. In grade 1 I got a touch-talker which was a little computer that spoke the words I pressed. I don’t have a lot of memories of using sign language and my picture books to communicate, but I do remember distinctly not wanting to use my touch-talker for it made me feel too different from everyone around me. Sometimes I wonder if God used that to motivate me in the process of learning how to speak.

A few months ago my mom found the picture book I used to communicate. Again it was so long ago that I only faintly remember using it. Yet seeing it again brought me back to the time in my life when it was a lot harder for people to understand me. I know it wasn’t only difficult for me, but also for those who patiently tried to understand what I was saying. 

Thinking about these things brings me to a place of deep thankfulness to God for the way He has enabled me to speak so much more clearly over the years. I am also so thankful for my family and friends who have so faithfully encouraged and supported me. I truly haven’t faced these difficulties alone.

I decided to keep my old picture book so that I can look at it when I feel discouraged. There are still times I find certain words difficult to say and I’m reminded of how the other limitations I have still do impact my life. We all need things in our lives that remind us of how much God has done in our lives, especially in the harder times of life.

Scripture talks often about our need to remember what the Lord has done for us. Deuteronomy 6:12 says it like this: “then take care lest you forget the LORD, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.”  Just like the Isrealites, we need to intentionally remember all the good deeds of the Lord. In His compassion, God often sends reminders of His good work in our lives, especially when we are most weary and discouraged.  

We are forgetful people- we easily forget all the big and little ways God shows His goodness in our lives. Look for the memorials in your life that can remind you of His past faithfulness during the discouragements of life. Remembering everything God has already done in our lives will give us the strength to endure the difficulties of this life. The Lord instructs us to tell others of His loving-kindness for the glory of His name, and for the joy and encouragement of our own heart. May we always remember the best thing God has done in our lives, He sent Jesus to bring us salvation and redemption in His name so that we can tell of His excellencies for all of eternity.