January 18: Strength to Choose Well

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 Strength to Choose Well

Key Text: Joshua 24:15 — “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Arlene Johnson-McLoed


Every day we make choices—some small, some life-shaping. Most of them don’t feel spiritual. They show up in how we respond when we’re tired, what we allow into our minds, how we treat people when no one is watching, and what we lean on when life feels heavy. Joshua’s words remind us that choosing God is not a one-time declaration; it is a daily decision.


Joshua spoke these words near the end of his life. He had seen victories, failures, miracles, and moments of deep fear. He knew that faith could not survive on yesterday’s commitment. That is why he said, “Choose this day.” Not tomorrow. Not when life slows down. Today.


Choosing well is not always easy. Sometimes the right choice costs us comfort, approval, or immediate relief. Serving the Lord often means walking against what feels easier or more popular. It takes strength to say no when everything in us wants to say yes. It takes courage to remain faithful when compromise looks harmless. And it takes trust to believe that God’s way, even when difficult, leads to life.
The good news is that God does not ask us to choose Him in our own strength alone. When our desire feels weak, His grace remains strong. When our resolve wavers, His Spirit helps us stand. God honors every honest decision to follow Him, even when it feels imperfect or small.


Today, you may not control every circumstance you face, but you can choose who you will serve in the middle of them. And that choice, made again and again, shapes the direction of your life.
Reflection

  • What choices are you currently facing that require wisdom and courage?
  • Are there areas where convenience has been guiding you more than conviction?
  • What would choosing the Lord look like for you today—in practical, real ways?
Prayer: 
Lord,
You know how easy it is for me to choose what feels comfortable instead of what is right. Today, I ask You for the strength to choose well. Help me to honor You in my decisions, both big and small. When my resolve feels weak, remind me that I am not choosing alone—you are with me. Give me the courage to follow You faithfully and grace when I stumble. I choose to serve You today.

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