Choose Whom You Will Serve

Introduction

Life is full of choices. Every day we make decisions that shape our future. Some choices are small, while others determine the direction of our lives. One of the greatest decisions anyone will ever make is the choice of whom to serve.

As Joshua prepared to leave this world, he gathered the children of Israel and reminded them of God's faithfulness throughout their history. He challenged them to stop living between two opinions and make a definite decision. His famous declaration remains relevant today: "Choose this day whom you will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

God is still asking every person the same question today.

1. Everyone Serves Someone

No one is truly independent. Every person serves something or someone.

• Some serve God.

• Some serve money.

• Some serve pleasure.

• Some serve success and ambition.

• Some serve sin and worldly desires.

• Some serve human approval instead of God's approval.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:24:

"No man can serve two masters."

If we are not serving God, we are serving something that is taking His rightful place in our lives.

2. Serving God Is a Personal Decision

Joshua did not force the people to follow God. Instead, he presented them with a choice.

Faith cannot be inherited.

• Your parents' faith cannot save you.

• Your pastor's faith cannot save you.

• Your spouse's faith cannot save you.

Every individual must personally decide to follow Christ.

Christianity is not merely belonging to a church. It is a daily commitment to obey and honour God.

3. Delay Is Also a Decision

Joshua said,

"Choose this day..."

He did not say tomorrow, next week, or when life becomes easier.

Many people postpone giving their lives to Christ because they believe there will always be another opportunity. But tomorrow is never guaranteed.

The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 6:2:

"Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

Every delayed decision hardens the heart and makes obedience more difficult.

4. Joshua Set the Right Example

Joshua boldly declared,

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

He did not wait for public opinion.

He did not ask what everyone else would do.

A godly leader influences others by personal example.

Parents should lead their families toward God.

Husbands and wives should build homes centred on Christ.

Church leaders should model faithful service.

People are inspired by those who live what they preach.

5. Serving God Brings Lasting Blessing

Serving God does not mean life will be free from challenges, but it guarantees God's presence through every season.

Those who serve God enjoy:

• His peace.

• His guidance.

• His protection.

• His strength.

• His eternal reward.

Psalm 84:11 says:

"No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

The greatest reward of serving God is knowing Him and spending eternity in His presence.

Lessons from Joshua's Declaration

• God's faithfulness deserves our loyalty.

• Neutrality in spiritual matters is impossible.

• Every family needs a spiritual leader.

• Commitment to God requires courage.

• The best decision anyone can make is to serve the Lord wholeheartedly.

Practical Applications

• Examine your heart to identify anything competing with God for your devotion.

• Make a fresh commitment to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

• Lead your family in prayer, Bible study, and worship.

• Refuse to compromise your faith because of pressure from society.

• Serve God faithfully whether others do or not.

Conclusion

Joshua stood before the people and challenged them to make a decision. His words still echo through every generation:

"Choose this day whom you will serve."

The world offers many masters, but only one Saviour. Wealth will fail, fame will fade, and earthly pleasures will pass away, but the Lord remains faithful forever.

Like Joshua, let our testimony be:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

May that be our decision today and every day of our lives.