Biblical Advice on Living WellSample

Decide to devote your life to God

“Choose this day whom you will serve […] But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)

Joshua had been Israel’s leader for years. In his farewell speech, he urges the people to make a decision. They have to choose whom they will serve: one of the idols served by surrounding people, or the Lord God, also known as “the God of Israel”. Joshua stresses that the people have to decide for themselves. He also explains that their decision will have consequences since God requires faithfulness — not just in outward obedience, but from the heart (Joshua 24:23).

Joshua says that he and his family are determined to serve the Lord. In response, the people pledge to serve “their God” as well.

Several centuries later, the prophet Elijah poses the same question. “How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). Sadly, the people don’t reply at all. They don’t want to take a decision. They are not ready to devote their lives to God.

The Bible makes clear that every human has to make this decision, however. Either you believe in God and surrender to Him, or you reject Him. You can’t keep jumping from one side to the other.

As for me, I will serve the Lord. How about you?