The white flag. It's a symbol of surrender. When you realize you cannot (or should not) fight this battle any longer, you raise the white flag.You give up control.
You admit that someone else is better than you.
Joshua raises up the white flag of faith in this passage. "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15).
In Israel, many of Joshua's friends had turned to worship other gods. "Gods" from Egypt, other "gods" from Canaan and "gods" of the Amorites. In those days, people made up different gods to symbolize different things - money, power, fertility, love, nature - you name it!
In comparison to God in Heaven, all other "gods" fall far short.
Here in 2009, it's common for people to worship the gods of pleasure, comfort, selfish desires, and security. We surrender time, money, thoughts, and physical effort trying to meet our own needs in these areas.
Joshua has had enough of that kind of living. He challenges his people (and us) - "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve..."
Who will you choose?
Every day, you and I face choices... opportunities, really, to serve God or to reject God.
Joshua has made the choice to serve the Lord. The word itself ("Lord") means 'leader,' 'ruler,' 'owner,' 'master,' and 'overseer.'
Who will you choose?
Dear God, teach me what it means to make you the complete 'master' over my heart and decisions and priorities. I know that my life and my circumstances are controlled by your will and your oversight of the universe. Help me surrender my own self-made plans and hopes to you, and seek first Your kingdom and Your ways for me.
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