July 17: “We Need More Men With the Resolve of Joshua!”

4 Minute Read + Scripture readings

Today’s Bible Reading:

Joshua 24
Acts 4
Jeremiah 13
Matthew 27

Today’s Bible Verse(s):

Joshua 24:15 (CSB): “But if it doesn’t please you to worship the Lord, choose for yourselves today: Which will you worship—the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living? As for me and my family, we will worship the Lord.”

Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):

Joshua’s leadership was impressive. His exploits are well-documented. And his resolve to serve the Lord is unquestioned.

Joshua quickly came to realize just how closely obedience and God’s blessings are connected. Joshua 7 recounts how one man’s sin led to the nation of Israel’s defeat at Ai. So, throughout his years of leading Israel, he passionately pursued obedience to the Lord and demanded it from others. The price of disobedience was simply too high.

Even as Joshua was preparing his exit, he wanted to make it clear to the people of Israel that they needed to make the absolute resolved to serve the Lord. The wellbeing of their families and of the nation of Israel was on the line.

Joshua 24:15 (CSB): “But if it doesn’t please you to worship the Lord, choose for yourselves today: Which will you worship—the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living? As for me and my family, we will worship the Lord.”

Friend, things have not changed. While bad things sometimes happen to people who are actively working to become more like Jesus, it is also true that God blesses the obedient and disciplines (and sometimes judges) the disobedient.

So, determine in your heart to do the thing that would be in your best interest, the best interest of your family, of your church, your community, and even beyond. Determine that as for you and your house, you are going to serve the Lord.

* * * * * * * * * *

Lord Jesus, I want to serve You. I also want to lead my family to serve You. First of all, my desire is to give You the glory that You are worthy of. Yet, I also realize that obeying You sets me and my family up to be recipients of Your blessings, whatever they are and however You choose to send them. Help me in this resolve, that as for me and my house, we are going to serve You. Amen.