Joshua 24:14-15, "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

Have you heard this quote from Ben Franklin, who said, "A Man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.” People need to make good biblical choices from deep within themselves. Joshua gave people several choices in verse 15 above. "...if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell..." Kind of odd, that a man who was so faithful in his service to the LORD, wouldn't force his will upon the people he was leading. He led by example, rather than by force. There was no doubt where Joshua stood, "...BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD."

My choices come from a deep desire to worship the LORD and to glorify Him. Your choices should come from the same deep desires. To me there is no greater privilege on earth than to serve the LORD. So Joshua gave direction as a leader in verse 14, "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD."

I am free to choose, but have determined I will choose placing myself under the authority of the One who saved me and gave Himself for me. Paul said in Philippians 1:21, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."  Choice belongs to you, the consequences belong to God. 

May each of us desire more than anything to serve the LORD in sincerity and in truth! Make good choices and be a Godly leader!

Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott

QUESTIONS TO PONDER
1.  What primarily influences the choices you make?

2. We have freedom to choose, so how have your choices impacted your life?

3. What two deep desires should impact your choices?

4. Is your influence upon your family helping them to grow in the grace of God?  How is this seen?

5. Would you say God is honored by your choices?  How can you back up your answer?