Throughout my life as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I have found in Joshua 24:15 a declaration that has deeply resonated in my heart and home: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." This scripture not only defines a personal commitment but also establishes the foundation for guiding our families in righteousness and faith. As a man, husband, and father, I have experienced how this principle can transform family and spiritual life.
Joshua, in his time, faced a reality similar to ours: a world full of choices and paths that, at first glance, might seem attractive but do not lead to the Lord. In his time, he invited the children of Israel to make a decision. That same invitation reaches us today, and I often ask myself: How can I ensure that my family and I remain steadfast in serving God amid such a complex world?
The Importance of Agency in Our Choices
The plan of salvation, as we understand it in the Church, revolves around agency, the divine gift of choosing between good and evil. Joshua urged the Israelites to make a conscious decision: "Choose you this day whom ye will serve." For me, this verse is a reminder that the decisions I make daily affect not only my relationship with God but also that of my wife and children.
The Book of Mormon also teaches us about the importance of choosing the good. In 2 Nephi 2:27, Lehi declares: “Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life… or to choose captivity and death.” This principle has helped me reflect on my responsibility as the head of the family. I cannot force my children to serve the Lord, but I can teach them by example and help them understand why it is the best choice.
The Home as the Center of the Gospel
I have learned that the home must be a spiritual refuge. My wife, Arianna, and I have worked together to make our home a place where the Spirit can dwell. This does not mean it is always easy. There are challenges, hard days, and moments when life tests us. But it is in those moments that I remember Joshua's words and find strength to remain firm in the covenant I made with the Lord.
In Doctrine and Covenants 88:119, we are invited to organize our homes like temples: "Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God.” This scripture has become a guide for my family. We have learned that when we place Christ at the center of our home, our priorities change. Serving the Lord ceases to be an obligation and becomes a blessing.
Counsel from Church Prophets
In the 1920s, President Heber J. Grant taught: “The home is the place where gospel principles are best taught, and where parents have the responsibility to guide their children in righteousness.” These words have inspired me to dedicate quality time to teaching my children. Whether reading scriptures together or simply sharing our daily experiences, I always seek ways to strengthen their faith.
Later, President George Albert Smith also testified: “When we choose to serve the Lord, we influence generations. The example of a righteous father leaves an eternal legacy.” This quote reminds me that my efforts to serve God and teach my family not only have an immediate impact but also an eternal one.
Practical Philosophy from Belize
Although most of the teachings I apply in my life come from gospel doctrine, I also find wisdom in the ideas of philosophers and thinkers. From Belize, philosopher Samuel Haylock suggested: “The family unit is the greatest strength of a society; if you want to change the world, start with your home.” These words align perfectly with what the Church teaches. There is no greater service we can offer the Lord than helping our family walk in righteousness.
Another Belizean thinker, Thomas Villanueva, declared: “Spiritual success is not measured by wealth or power, but by the peace that reigns in the hearts of those who follow God.” These ideas help me remember that although life can be uncertain, if my family and I serve the Lord, we will find peace and purpose.
The Influence of Scriptures in My Life
Another scripture that has been key in my experience is Alma 37:6, which states: “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.” In day-to-day life, I cannot always perform grand acts to show my service to the Lord, but I can pray with my family, read the scriptures, and strengthen our faith through small, consistent actions.
Additionally, in Mosiah 2:17, we learn: “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.” This scripture inspires me to involve my family in acts of service. Often, we participate together in community service projects or visit members of the Church who need support. These experiences unite us and help us remember that we are in this life to serve, not to be served.
My Personal Testimony
I conclude this blog by sharing my testimony that Joshua 24:15 is much more than a powerful verse. It is a personal and family commitment that defines who we are and what we believe in. I know that by choosing to serve the Lord, my home is filled with peace and direction.
I often reflect on how the gospel has blessed my life and my family’s life. We are not perfect, but we are confident that by making Christ our focus, we can overcome any challenge. I know that by following this path, we are creating an eternal legacy for our children and future generations.
To those who may read these words, I invite you to reflect on your own commitment to the Lord. Is Christ at the center of your lives and homes? If not, it is not too late to change. Just as Joshua invited the children of Israel, today I invite you to choose whom you will serve. I testify that by doing so, you will find peace, joy, and purpose in your lives.
May we all confidently say: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
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