How would the people of Israel respond to the grace of God? How would their lives be changed? By accepting God's gift of salvation, we commit ourselves to living as his holy and redeemed people. Joshua says, "Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness." We put aside the false gods of this world and worship the true and living God. We serve him in sincerity with all our hearts by making his honor and glory our one passion and desire. We serve him in faithfulness by obeying his word as the absolute authority in our lives. He is our God and we are his people. Serving him is the choice that we make each and every day.

The people of Israel confessed everything the LORD had done for them and promised to serve him as their God. However, in verse 19, Joshua says, "You are not able to serve the LORD, for he is a holy God." They should have realized that they were not able to serve God with their own strength. Salvation is by the power of God and so is sanctification. We need God's help to obey his commands and live lives that honor him. We must be fully surrendered and dependent on Him. Joshua set up a large stone by the sanctuary of the LORD as a witness to the commitment they made. Then, every man went to his inheritance.


Application: Father, give us strength to serve you.
One Word: Choose the LORD your God!