It’s time to choose
Our choices set the direction of our lives. We see this in the final chapter of Joshua, where the Israelites are challenged by Joshua to make a definitive choice about whom they will serve.
“Get Up,” our series on the book of Joshua, concluded last Sunday with this moment of choice. As Pastor Jake explained, Joshua’s challenge occurs at Shechem, a place historically known for decisions. In Joshua 24, the people are called to abandon their idols and commit wholeheartedly to God because they have been caught between worshiping Yahweh and clinging to idols. Joshua tells them it’s time to choose decisively, because their choice will set the course for their lives.
Jake examined the nature of idols, not just as physical objects but as anything that takes precedence over God in our hearts. These idols can be inherited from our families or absorbed from the culture around us. They might manifest as the pursuit of success, perfectionism, control, secrecy, comfort, money, relationships, or approval. Each of these idols competes with our devotion to God, demanding our time, energy and affection.
The heart of idolatry is a divided heart, one that is not fully satisfied with God alone. This dissatisfaction leads us to seek fulfillment in other things, which ultimately cannot satisfy. Joshua’s call to the Israelites is a call to us as well: to choose whom we will serve. This choice is not just about rejecting idols but about embracing a new identity in Christ, putting off the old self and putting on the new like we would change out of dirty old clothes into something clean and new.
Jake encouraged us to examine what we prioritize, what we cannot live without, and what we are willing to sacrifice for. These reflections reveal where our true affections lie. The choice we make today will affect not only our own lives but also those around us, especially our families. By choosing to serve the Lord, we break the chains of generational idols and step into the freedom and abundance that God offers.
Reflection Questions
- Reflect on your own life: Are there any “idols of heritage” that you have inherited from your family that might be influencing your priorities today? How can you begin to address these influences?
- Consider the “idols of culture” that might be present in your life. What steps can you take to ensure that these cultural influences do not take precedence over your relationship with God?
- We explored the power of choice. What is one specific area in your life where you need to make a decisive choice to serve God more fully?
- How can you actively work on putting off the “old self” and embracing your new identity in Christ this week? What practical steps can you take to reinforce this transformation?
- Identify a specific distraction or idol in your life that prevents you from focusing on Jesus. What is one action you can take this week to minimize its influence?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from March 16
- “Evidence”
- “Firm Foundation (He Won’t)”
- “Graves into Gardens”
- “Christ Be Magnified” (after the message)