Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing.
Joshua 3:15-16a NIV
Hearing God’s word is one thing, but it is another to obey. The Israelites, led by Joshua, were about to cross the Jordan on their journey to the promised land. At this point, the river posed a significant challenge. However, God, who foresaw their path, knew precisely how to guide them across the river. He had done it at the Red Sea, and He could do it again.
Notably, the Israelites were at the Jordan River when it was at flood stage. Crossing the river was a task, but crossing it while flooded was an entirely different challenge. Yet, we must understand that even a flood cannot prevent God from leading His people into the promised land. Absolutely nothing, not even nature’s might, can hinder God’s plans.
In verses 7-8, God instructs Joshua:
Today, I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: when you reach the edge of the Jordan’s waters, go and stand in the river.
Joshua 11:7-8 NIV
This command might have seemed illogical. Standing in a raging river? Wouldn’t it be wiser to wait for the waters to recede? However, Joshua and the people chose unwavering faith. They didn’t rely on past experiences at the Red Sea. Joshua did not presume to know how God would help them cross the Jordan. Instead, He waited for God’s specific instruction for this particular situation and was willing to follow it.
Consequently, Joshua instructed the people (verses 11 to 13), telling them that the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth would go into the Jordan ahead of them. He asked them to choose 12 men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. He further explained that as soon as the priests carrying the ark set foot in the Jordan, its downstream waters would be cut off and stand up in a heap.
It’s important to note the sequence of instructions: first from the Lord to Joshua and then from Joshua to the people. The people trusted Joshua’s leadership and obeyed without questioning.
This passage highlights two crucial points. First, the importance of a leader’s connection with God. Joshua, through his unwavering faith, received clear instructions and guided the people safely. Second, the power of obedience. The Israelites, trusting in both God and Joshua, followed the instructions without question.
Imagine if Joshua had acted without divine guidance. His leadership, without God’s direction, could have led to disaster. This underscores the importance of every leader maintaining a right standing with God to guide His people correctly.
Finally, in verses 15-16, we witness the miraculous outcome of their obedience. The Jordan’s waters stopped flowing, creating a path for the Israelites to cross. This event serves as a powerful encouragement for us. We are called to follow God wholeheartedly, ready to obey His instructions promptly and completely.
Remember, God works in mysterious ways. We don’t need to see a miracle to experience one. Through unwavering faith and complete obedience, we can become who God wants us to be and achieve what He has planned for us.
In conclusion, the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan under Joshua’s leadership is a powerful testament to the importance of faith, obedience, and strong leadership. It serves as a reminder that no obstacle is too great when we trust in God’s guidance and obey His instructions. This narrative encourages us to face our challenges head-on, knowing that with God on our side, we can overcome anything. It’s a timeless lesson that continues to inspire and guide us in our spiritual journey.
