Bible Verse: “‘Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.’” Joshua 24:14-15
Scripture Reading: Joshua 23:1–24:33
As we come to the end of the book of Joshua, it’s almost fitting that we are given the challenge that Joshua left with the people. Joshua is reminding the people of Israel (and us) that this is not the end of the story. There is more to come. And the people must choose how their adventure with God will continue.
Within this challenge, Joshua reminds the people of their history, reminds them of their ancestors. Notice in verse fourteen that Joshua says that their ancestors in Egypt worshiped other gods. He is calling them to a decision. Recognizing all that God has done for their ancestors and all that this present generation has witnessed, what will they choose?
Joshua’s famous words about who his house will serve take on the significance of a defiant challenge: You may do what you like, but we will serve God!
The challenge stands for us today. Will we choose God, or will we choose our own way? As men, will we lead our families and others to a life of faithfulness to our Creator and Redeemer, or will we chase after other things, and, like the Israelites of previous and future generations (we’ll explore the book of Judges soon!), let each do what is right in their own eyes?
Men, whether we have a family or not, the choice of how we live and lead those around us presents itself anew each morning. Through the centuries, Joshua’s challenge has echoed into our lives—choose!
Prayer: God, many things call for my attention and devotion each day. Help me to hear the call of faithfulness to You and to choose each day to serve You and Your Kingdom. Amen.
Reflection: Where are you most tempted to follow an easier path than God’s? How might deliberately choosing to serve God change your actions?
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