Schlieren (Psalms 77:11-12)
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This is a word that you most likely know what it is but didn’t know it had a name!
This photo, taken from the artist Gary Settles, demonstrates the phenomenon known as schlieren. Simply put, schlieren describes the visual effect of fluids flowing through different densities. It is the image of sound waves when a jet flies at supersonic speed; it is the air currents shimmering over a hot asphalt pavement; or as in this photo, the waves of heat emanating from a flame.
When I was in the 3rd grade, my teacher taught us about this phenomenon. After school, I attempted to explain what I learned to my mother but could not remember this word. So, I returned to the classroom and asked my teacher about it. She made me write it out on the blackboard and then asked me to copy it 100 times so that I would not forget it! Wow! I thought I was being very proactive in my learning and now it felt like I was being punished! Nonetheless, the lesson worked and I still remember the word, and, somehow, attempt to work it into my everyday pompous vocabulary!
I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.
Psalms 77:11-12
God, through His Holy Spirit, commands us to remember His promises to us. Depending upon the Bible translation one uses, one may encounter the word, remember, as many as 165 times in the Bible. God want us to remember what He has done in your life and in the lives of others. When we do, it strengthens our faith and allows us to face new trials and tribulations with confidence. How do we remember? It may be as simple and elementary as writing down a verse or God’s promises. It may be a Bible app that allows us to memorize Bible verses. It may be by applying the appropriate Bible verse to a situation we find ourselves. Whichever mechanism is used, by memorizing and repeating God’s Word, we will remember.
Sometimes, it just takes a little extra effort to remember something. But unlike trying to remember an obscure scientific word, God’s Word is living and active and the more we desire to learn it, the easier it will be to remember it.
Praise God for His faithfulness to us!
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.