Our Scripture reading today is Joshua 24:14-15.
Verse 14, "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD."
The second leader (Joshua) of the nation of Israel gives a specific challenge to the people. This challenge was multi-faceted. I would like us to zero in on the statement, "put away the gods." Some of the "gods" the people had embraced were from Egypt which is a picture of the world. The world still has plenty of gods to offer.
Is there anything or anyone that has a greater level of importance in our lives than our relationship with God? How do we respond to work that keeps us from faithfully attending the church services? What hobbies do we have that get more attention than the Word of God? In order for us to "serve Him in sincerity and in truth", there must first be a heart cleaning of the gods we have allowed into our lives. Our priorities need to be in line with the Word of God. Matthew 6:33, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
I would like to encourage you to ask God if there are any gods in your life that need to be put away. A sincere prayer like that will most definitely be answered.