April 24 | Joshua 24:14-15

““Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, 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 in the region beyond the River, 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, ESV)

We all have choices to make in life. Some are critical, shaping the rest of our lives. Career, marriage, and having children change your future. Others are inconsequential. What I will have for lunch today won’t change my future.

The most critical decision you will make in life is who you will worship and serve. There are many religions and many gods out there. The Israelites must choose either Yahweh or the gods of the nations around them. They choose the Lord, but history shows they shop around later.

You must choose between the Lord’s way and the world’s way. Once you choose, you must commit to your choice. Shopping around after you choose the Lord brings destruction.

Your relationship with the Lord is like a marriage. There will be hard times ahead. But it’s better to have a living, speaking Lord walk with you than a dead idol. Your choice is reflected in your follow-through.

Action Step: Commit to serving the Lord even in the hard times. He walks with you and talks with you. You are never alone. The Lord is your Savior, Healer, Shield, Fortress, and Rock. He is not surprised by what happens to you. Your story isn’t over.

Lord Jesus, I know you walk with me today. When I meet trials, suffering, and persecution, I rely on you. Guide me today as I follow your every command. No matter what I face, your Spirit in me and presence with me give me power.