choose

“Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served…, and serve the Lord. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served…, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Joshua 24:14-15

Amidst our circumstances, full surrender to God and release of our own control can be frightening, but take heart because the Lord is with you.

In sitting with this verse, I am reminded of the weight of our decision to follow God, the impact it has on those around us and generations to follow. I am reminded that it is a choice - one for which we need strength renewed daily in order to make. 

While in the context of Biblical history, Joshua is referring to specific gods from previous generations and other nations, I encourage you to place your idol in this verse and read it again. 

Put away the desire for worldly possession. Put away the need for validation from society. Put away whatever is holding you back from fully committing to God, and choose this day whom you will serve.

Though the choice alone may be obvious, it is carrying out that choice through action that proves more difficult than the decision itself. But from the story of Joshua and the life and resurrection of Jesus, we know that once our choice is made we are never alone. 

Just like the Lord fought for Israel to deliver them into the promised land, so the Lord will fight for each of us. The book of Joshua starts off with God encouraging Joshua, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  Amidst our circumstances, full surrender and release of control can be frightening, but take heart because the Lord is with you.

The book of Joshua itself is an answered promise. And just like the Word of God will not return void, neither will his promises. 

Warmly,
Sarah Manzinger

additional reading:

Joshua 1:9 / Galatians 1:10 / Matthew 16:24-25 / Ephesians 6:10-11

reflect:

Is there an idol, sin, or lie might I be serving above the Lord in my life?

centering prayer:

LORD, thank you that because you are with me there is no need to fear the surrender that comes with choosing you. Thank you that choosing you is choosing your love, your mercy, and your promise. I pray today for the strength to put down my idols, to pick up my cross, and follow you. Amen.