But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Joshua 24:15
When Joshua spoke these words it was a really wild time. Everything was in upheaval. The people had occupied the Land of Canaan and were putting a new order into their lives. But the hearts of the people were not fully on the Lord, but flirted with the old and new gods and lifestyles. Joshua made a clear decision: Me and my house will stay true to the Lord. He had known God in all the years that he served Moses and where he had conquered the land for the Lord. Also, his people had seen miracles from the Lord, but even so they had not decided to live for and serve Him alone. They said; we want to serve the Lord, but it was more lip service. Joshua said to the people, "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. (v19)
When I looked at the news this morning, I saw only crises. Everywhere there are shootouts and whoever is the strongest prevails. Agreements have no worth, only the power of the strongest. Everywhere sin is reigning; sex, parties, corruption, broken agreements. And I concluded: No, I will stay fixed and hold true to the Lord. I will serve Him, He will be my destination. I do not want to have worry, but to trust in Him. He holds His hand over me, even when I sometimes don‘t see it. I want to stay faithful to the Lord and protect and care for my people who belong to Him.
If a family or group is divided and a part of that group belongs to the Lord and another part wants to go a different way, it is very difficult. But also there the Lord will give patience, mercy, wisdom. He says; you are called for peace. It is irrelevant what is and what comes ; I will stay true to the Lord. Because He is to me the truth.
Thank you Jesus, that you are my Lord, that you are attentive to me and care for me. Everything in the world is in chaos, but you hold me fast in your strong hand. Thank you for the peace that you jay in my heart. Thank you for the security and certainty that you give to me. Thank you for the joy of Your presence. You have the last word. THANK YOU!