There is much discussion over the nature of what “records” or “books” God keeps, especially regarding the “Book of Life”. One point of agreement however is that the Bible does use the simile of writing in books. That provides a visual to assist us in more fully understanding and admiring God’s standards, wisdom, and work.

The first instance in Scripture where writing in a book is used regarding God was when God gave the law of commandments through Moses. That is detailed in Exodus 20-23, summarized in Deuteronomy 30:19-20, 32:46-47, and mentioned as being in a book in 2 Chronicles 34:14. In this book both blessings and curses are listed as referred to in Deuteronomy 29:19 Tanakh (29:20 OT.)

Other books in Scripture are: the “Book of Wars” which is a collection of war songs celebrating glorious acts of God on behalf of Israel (Numbers 21:14), the “Book of Jasher” which is a chronicle of the early history of Israel (Joshua 10:13, 2 Samuel 1:18), and the “Book of Works” which is a record of the deeds of unbelievers. Those who do not possess the imputation of God’s righteousness are judged by their personal works/things they have done. (Daniel 7:9-10, Romans 3 (particularly 19-24), Revelation 20:12-13.)

The “Book of Remembrance” is mentioned in Malachi 3:16 and also referred to in Psalm 56:9 Tanakh (56:8 OT.) Those whom God has called to Himself, who are His, will as a natural outflow, exhibit a reverential fear of the Lord, a respect for who He is. Out of that flows a desire to follow God, to learn about His character and His ways, to obey Him, to share about Him, as well as the natural tears of pain/frustration borne out of oppression, persecution, and wounds inflicted by enemies of God. All of this is recorded in the “Book of Remembrance.”

And then there is the Book of Life…