WE WILL SERVE THE LORD
“But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.” – Joshua 24:15 (NLT).
Studies reveal that when both parents actively participate in church, approximately 74% of their children maintain some form of religious practice into adulthood. This underscores the profound impact of parental godly leadership on shaping children’s spiritual beliefs and behaviours. By intentionally inviting God to lead your family, you can transform its dynamics, including reaching those who are currently unsaved.
In our anchor text, Joshua recounts the goodness of God to the people of Israel, dating back to the days of Abraham. He further encouraged them to put away the idols of other nations and serve the Lord. However, if they refused, he and his family had a commitment to serve God. Joshua’s surrendering his family to divine leadership is a commendable example. Likewise, your faith should inspire your family members to follow the Lord.
In 2 Timothy 1:5, Apostle Paul highlights the selfless faith of Timothy’s grandmother and mother. His grandmother influenced his mother, and in turn, Timothy was shaped by that same faith. As you hear the gospel and grow spiritually, you also have a responsibility to share your faith with your family. You can take this a step further by inviting them to gatherings where the gospel is taught, as Cornelius did in Acts 10:24; as a result, his whole household was saved.
Beyond sharing the gospel and inviting your unsaved loved ones to hear God’s Word, you can pray for them, asking God to remove spiritual blindness (2 Corinthians 4:4). In Romans 3, Apostle Paul prays for salvation for his kin – the nation of Israel. He specifically notes fervour and knowledge that do not have their source in God’s saving grace. Many of your family members may be experiencing the same. They might have hardened their hearts against the truth. Your prayers can open their eyes, ears and hearts to the truth of the Gospel.
Additionally, model Christ-likeness in your life (1 Corinthians 7:14; Matthew 5:16), trusting that a godly example points them to the gospel. Let your family members see that your everyday life matches the words that you preach.
Surrendering your family to God is not a passive act; it requires active engagement in prayer, sharing the gospel, and modelling Christ. Just as Joshua declared his family’s commitment to serve the Lord, we too must lead by example.
Say this: “As I follow the Lord, I commit to being a channel of godly influence to my family.”
Bible Reading Plan: Psalm 38-40, 1 Corinthians 15:35-58