June 18, transition (part 3, “across”)June 18, 2024
The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
Joshua 3:17
In retrospect (reference devotions for June 16 and 17): Upon review of the story of Israel’s preparation to cross the Jordan (with their course set by God for the Promised Land), one is reminded that successful steps forward in faith often require a glance back to be reminded of God’s faithfulness and covenant. Therefore, this story offers the perspective to “look back.” Also, the story beckons one to “look around”, as God’s promise, “I will do great things among you tomorrow,” encouraged Israel to “look around” and consecrate their whole life afresh and anew to God.
Joshua told the people, “consecrate yourselves today, because the Lord will do wonders among you tomorrow.”
Joshua 3:5
A third perspective of this story represents the most obvious perspective: “look ahead.” The “wonders tomorrow” represented for Israel the crossing of the Jordan, and all that this miracle entailed (managing the entire population of Israel down the steep slopes of the Jordan River during the time usual for flood, the complete stoppage of the raging currents, etc.)
Also, the wonders represented the actual entrance into the promised land, thus referencing “tomorrow” as the complete fulfillment of the promise. Consider the excitement that undoubtedly characterized the historical narrative of these words. The time had finally come to enter the land. What an incredible time of anticipation revealed in the third chapter of Joshua. And this was no time for a lackadaisical continuance. This was most certainly a time of consecration, for the promise, “wonders tomorrow,” rightly followed the call to be set apart.Therefore, the call to consecration was not a mere contingency for favor, but rather a sacred anticipation and renewal of commitment to Jehovah toward the promise. The consecration was not for the purpose of earning the promise, but rather an act of faith toward the fulfillment of the covenant. Consecration – being set apart unto God, always demonstrates one’s faith in the covenant relationship, and one’s desire to grow in that relationship.
We know by reading to the end of the third chapter of Joshua that God made a way: He allowed Israel to cross the Jordan River. He made a way indeed! Also, the Scriptures are careful to indicate that “all” Israel crossed. God’s promise was thorough. God completed in full what He had promised.
Today, many people stand on the flooded banks of their own intimidating “Jordan River,” with the path to God’s promises seemingly impossible. The surging currents seem to adequately represent all that has been surging in one’s life that remains beyond any element of personal control. Right there on the banks, God is asking that you allow Him to lead you (symbolized from the story by the priest carrying the ark into the flooded waters of the Jordan ahead of everyone – Joshua 3:8). As you make God your priority, as you desire to reflect His holiness, and as you obey His Word, you can be assured that the raging waters will part. You can be assured of safe passage across. Although God will seldom detail the “how,” He promises you the “what” – He will fulfill His promise for you. He will do it.
As you stare at the raging waters you cannot control, focus on that which you can: consecrating yourself afresh and anew before God. Spiritually prepare for what God will do next – not in an attempt to earn a blessing, but simply to honor the One who holds your future. You will be amazed at the wonders tomorrow as you choose to consecrate your heart to Him today.
Blessings.
READ
Read Joshua 3 in conjunction with chapter 4 and celebrate that God will indeed “get you across.”