'Me and my family'

When Joshua made his famous declaration - 'But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord' (Joshua 24:15 NLT) - his focus was probably on challenging the Israelites to make a decision for God. But whether he meant it to stand out or not, it gives us a glimpse into his priorities: rather than 'as for me and my army/my company/my mates/my career, I shall serve the Lord,' Joshua declares it over his family, his household. Not only is Joshua planning to exercise his own faith, but he wants his entire family to have a relationship with God (and all of Israel).

The importance of his family shines through. They're going with him, part of his walking with God, not going to be left behind. For some of us, families aren't always easy, and the idea of all gathering round the family Bible to sing together each morning may fall somewhat flat. But chances are there are some opportunities where living for Jesus and time with our family can come together brilliantly.

What would it look like for us to pray for God to bring our family into unity and relationship with him, for us to be able to say, 'me and my family, we will serve the Lord'? Let's declare this over our family, wherever they are in their faith journey.



So what now? Make a point of thanking God for your family every day, as well as praying for them. God honours these prayers. Watch things change.





— SCRIPTURE —

'But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.' Joshua 24:15 NLT
— SOULFOOD —

2 Tim 1-4, Matt 27:33-44, Ps 14, Pro 19:1-4