“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15
Our Decision to Follow God
Choosing to follow God is a profound decision we face in our lives. It shows our desire to align our hearts with His will and purpose. This choice is not merely a one-time event but a daily commitment, a promise we make with significant implications for ourselves and those around us. We can boldly declare our intention to serve God, just like Joshua did. Each day offers us new opportunities to reaffirm our commitment, making it clear to others that we have chosen a path that honors God above all else.
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” – Matthew 16:24
Luke 9:23
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” – Luke 9:23
John 10:27
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” – John 10:27
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7
The Role of Faith in Our Choice
Our faith plays a pivotal role in choosing to follow God. It is through faith that we realize the goodness of God and His promises for our lives. Embracing this faith empowers us to let go of our doubts and fears, knowing that God has our best interests at heart. By trusting Him wholeheartedly, we make informed choices that lead us closer to Him. This journey of faith encourages us to take courageous steps in our walk with God, turning our hearts toward the truth of His word.
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Mark 11:22
“‘Have faith in God,’ Jesus answered.” – Mark 11:22
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
The Strength of Community in Our Choice
As we choose to follow God, we realize how vital a faith community is in our life. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers reinforces our commitment to God, providing support and encouragement. Together, we share wisdom and experiences that help us grow deeper in our faith. Being part of a community allows us to hold one another accountable, reminding us of the promises God has for those who earnestly seek Him. Our choices are strengthened when we walk together, hand in hand, loving and supporting each other on this glorious journey.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Choosing God’s Way Over Our Own
At times, we may struggle with choosing our own way or God’s way. This choice requires us to reflect on our desires and motives in life. God wants us to acknowledge Him and seek His will for our journey. When we let God lead, we often find ourselves walking paths beyond our understanding. Yielding our preferences allows God’s plans to unfold in ways we could never imagine, filled with hope, purpose, and fulfillment. Choosing His way will always lead us back to a sense of peace and joy.
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:8-9
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
The Blessings of Following God
Choosing to follow God opens the door to an abundance of blessings. Throughout the Bible, we see that God rewards obedience and faithfulness. We are promised peace, joy, and purpose in our lives when we align our hearts with His. The blessings may not always be tangible; they often manifest in our relationships, inner peace, and spiritual growth. As we continue to honor our relationship with God, we can trust that His blessings will flow in ways we could never imagine, enriching our lives and those around us.
Deuteronomy 28:1-2
“If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.” – Deuteronomy 28:1-2
Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither – whatever they do prospers.” – Psalm 1:1-3
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
James 1:12
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12
The Impact of Our Choice on Others
Choosing to follow God not only affects our lives but also influences those around us. Our faith can ignite a spark in others, inspiring them to explore their own relationships with God. When we walk in obedience, we shine a light in their darkness, guiding them toward the love of Jesus. As we share our stories of faith, we build a chain of testimonies that can impact generations to come. Our choices carry weight, and by choosing God, we can lead others into a life filled with hope and joy.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
Titus 2:7
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.” – Titus 2:7
2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” – 2 Timothy 2:2
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23-24
Final Thoughts
In choosing to follow God, we open our lives to a path filled with guidance, faith, and blessings. Through our decisions, we pave a way for ourselves and others, reflecting God’s goodness in our daily actions. We are not just making a choice for ourselves, but for everyone around us, as our faith can serve as a beacon of hope for others. The strength of community, personal faith, and the understanding of God’s ways leads us to a fulfilling life.
As we continue our walk with God, let’s encourage one another in our commitment to His ways. May we always remember the blessings that come from choosing to follow Him and the impact our decisions have on those around us. If you ever feel lost, know that we can always turn to God’s word for encouragement and direction.
We have numerous topics to explore as we seek to deepen our understanding. You might find it helpful to read about letting God take control and letting God guide you.