Devotion 

They Turned Away

Frances Taylor 

Once Joshua died, it didn't take long for the Israelites to turn away and worship Baal. It only took one generation. The latest Pew Report on religious affiliation shows rapid decline in those who declare themselves to be Christian as well as those who attend church on a regular basis. This decline has been going on for several generations and who knows where it will end? Forty years ago, most states had laws preventing businesses being open on Sunday. Today, people get offended if a business closes on Sunday. It's not that long ago that sports for youth could not take place until the afternoon so that families could attend church. But then greed took over and stores are now open as if it's just another day. When Sunday openings first happened, workers had a choice whether or not they were willing to work; now they have no option. Sunday mornings are now for youth sports because their parents want to stay home on Sunday afternoon and watch sports on television. It doesn't take long to find false gods. If families don't go to church, how do they learn about their faith? If the parents aren't there, how can they teach their children? If the children aren't there, who will teach them? It's no surprise that so many people don't identify as Christian, it's a wonder so many still do. I wonder how many of those who do, know what being a Christian means. If we don't know what it means, how can we explain it to others? If we can't explain it, how can we evangelize those around us? Let us be one of those who continues to learn and grow in faith.

Prayer 

Lord, we will never be able to remove false gods from our world; however, please give us the courage to stand firm in our faith and trust in you. Amen.