Scripture

And the people said to Joshua, “We will serve the Lord our God and worship him.”

Observation

Joshua gathers together all the leaders of Israel at Shechem, where he recounts to them what the Lord has done for them in bringing the out of Egypt and into their own land.

He encourages them to serve the Lord, but if that seems too hard they must decide which gods they will serve. They reply that they will serve the Lord.

Joshua warns them that if they choose to serve the Lord but later turn away from Him, then He will judge them. They say again, “We will serve the Lord.” They then make a covenant there to always serve the Lord.

Later on, Joshua dies at the age of 110.

Application

The people of Israel were positive in their assertion that they would serve the Lord. Subsequent generations moved away from that certainty.

It isn’t always easy to follow the Lord. The “gods” of this age demand our worship, and our flesh is quick to acquiesce.

When we fall, there is forgiveness, but it is better not to fall. We must try to keep our heart pure and stay alert for the tricks of the enemy. We need to wear the full armour of God (Ephesians 6) so that there is no room for undermining by satan.

Prayer

Father, you have called me to serve you and to walk in your ways. Help me to keep my focus on you alone at all times. Amen.