Years ago when Italy went to war there was a shortage of soldiers. To find recruits, one captain went through the villages calling men to fight with him. Many joined him, bringing their own weapons into combat.
One elderly lady was so moved by the sight that she got her broom, placed it on her shoulder and began to march with them.

Many of the soldiers laughed at her. One looked at her and asked, “What good are you, old lady?”

“Not much,” she replied, “but I want everyone to know whose side I’m on!”

Life requires many choices. But there is no more important choice for each of us than to let the world know whose side we are on. Joshua said, “So honor the Lord and serve Him whole heartedly.” He challenged the people to declare their allegiance to God because He had proven His trustworthiness to them.

From simple to significant, we make many choices each day. Not being able to see the future or knowing which direction our lives may take, we must put our trust in the One who does. We must listen to the Lord as He speaks to us through His Word. When we do, it will be easier to make the right choices. Especially if we are on the Lord’s side and draw upon His strength.

Prayer: Lord, may we live our lives letting those around us see the depth of our commitment to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Joshua 24:14, 15 But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Some politicians are notorious for the ability to explain away every issue without taking a stand on any of them. One was recognized as being as spineless as spaghetti. Once when asked a question he said, “Part of my friends favor one side of that issue and part of them favor the other side of that issue. I am in favor of my friends!”

No matter what is at stake, it is always possible to find people who will take opposing sides of any given issue. There are even times when the issue does not matter but people still take sides and argue for the sake of arguing. Sometimes the issue is fleeting or frivolous and not worth serious discussion or debate. Still, sides are chosen and positions staked out.

There is one issue that confronts everyone. It is the issue of who will be the Lord of our lives. Joshua once confronted the people of Israel and said, “Choose you this day whom you will serve.” The people had to make a choice between the God whom they knew they could trust, or the gods who had always failed them.

We, too, must make that choice. What we decide will determine our destiny.

Prayer: Father, give us courage to stand firm and to always be faithful in our commitment to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Joshua 24:14-15