Tag: beacon of truth
Confident confession!
Scripture reading for March 8th: Joshua 22-24
Someone has said that “if you don’t stand for something, then you will fall for anything.” I am not ashamed to state publicly that I love Jesus Christ! I also have repeatedly told my children that our family serves the Lord and we are known as followers of Christ. I don’t want the Lord to be ashamed of me because I have been ashamed of Him! (Luke 9:26)
Joshua gave his farewell address to the people God had allowed him the privilege of leading. He had lived a hundred and ten years and knew by personal experience that they were stubborn and rebellious. He made a strong statement to provoke them to serve the Lord. When we take a public stand we let others hear our heart and all are held more accountable to the leader’s example.
The closing chapter records the confession of Joshua:”. . .but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15) This confession has stood over the years as a beacon to fathers, pastors, and those who fear the Lord. It brought a positive response from the Israelites as well! (Joshua 24:16-18) After their positive response, Joshua spoke negatively about the people’s ability to follow through with serving the Lord. “You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end to you, after he has been good to you.” (Joshua 24:19-20)
I believe that Joshua knew these people too well. He also had Moses’ song that warned of the people’s future unfaithfulness. (Deuteronomy 32:15-22) God had warned these leaders so that they could preach and prepare the people to avoid the temptations of idolatry and unfaithfulness. The leaders were expected to teach and live a godly example. Joshua also knew God’s jealous nature! (Exodus 34:14) God would not put up with their sins. Let’s confess along with Joshua and our Jesus: “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!” We will impact our family, church, and nation!