Drawing from Joshua chapter 24, Dr. Paul Hartog challenges students at the start of a new academic year to renew their commitment to serving the Lord with the same dedication that Joshua called the Israelites to demonstrate. Just as Israel stood on the threshold of conquest in the Promised Land, students stand on the cusp of a new semester requiring renewed spiritual commitment.
Scripture Text
Joshua 24:14-15 (with context from Joshua 24:1-31)
Main Points or Ideas
1. The Challenge - Serve the Lord not only in action but also in attitude, with fear (reverential awe), sincerity (wholeness and integrity), and truth (genuine commitment). This involves both outward obedience and inward heart commitment.
2. The Exchange - Put off the false gods and idols that compete for our loyalty (materialism, convenience, grades, relationships, procrastination, lack of self-discipline) and put on true worship and service to the Lord, following the biblical pattern of "put off/put on."
3. The Choice - Make a personal, pressing, and exclusive decision about whom you will serve. Joshua presents the choice as absurd - why would anyone choose powerless, man-made idols over the living God who has demonstrated His faithfulness throughout history?
4. The Resolve - Demonstrate determined leadership like Joshua, who declared "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." This involves leading by example and influencing others within your sphere of influence, whether in the dorm, on sports teams, or in studies.
Conclusion
Joshua's challenge to covenant renewal remains relevant today, calling believers to serve God with both action and proper attitude, to exchange false loyalties for true devotion, and to demonstrate resolute leadership that influences others toward faithful service to the Lord.
