Serve the Lord – February 11, 2020

Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.
Joshua 24:15,16

Serve the Lord

If you read a good book, there is some excitement when you reach the end of a chapter. What will happen next? When you finish a chapter in your life, there can be some uncertainty. What will you do next?

Joshua was near the end of his earthly life. Joshua was the man God chose to lead the nation of Israel into the Promised Land of Canaan. Before his death, Joshua gave a farewell address to the people. He said, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.”

“Whom will I serve?” That’s an important question for you to ask yourself. Not just at the end of some season in your life. Every morning is a new chapter. You may plan ahead of time that today you will go here and do that. But before you do anything, dedicate yourself to serving the Lord in everything.

Why would you do such a thing? Just remember what the Lord, in his grace, has done for you. Jesus has delivered you from slavery to sin and has given you a place in his family. Amid life’s changes, he is always your rock. And at the end of your life, he will lead you safely through death to the eternal Promised Land of heaven.

There is blessing in serving the Lord in everything. Throw away the idols that you served yesterday because they cannot save you. Turn your heart to the Lord who alone satisfies your desires. Pray for courage. And let the world see, by humble acts of kindness, the choice of your heart.

Say along with Joshua, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

Prayer: (adapted from the hymn, Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above)
Lord Jesus Christ, I confess your holy name. Help me to cast every idol from its throne. Give me courage to show the world that you, with Father and Holy Spirit, are God alone. To you all praise and glory. Amen.