“When the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the Lord of all the earth shall rest in the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan coming down from above shall be cut off and they shall stand in one heap.” – Joshua 3:13 (AMPC)
As they were about to enter the Promised Land, Joshua listened keenly to God’s instructions regarding the Israelites’ crossing over the Jordan, and spoke to the priests, giving them the exact instructions God had given him.
Friends, obedience brings the blessing. God had promised to drive out seven nations from before the children of Israel so they could possess the land. But they were required to follow His instructions to the letter. Obedience brings protection and preservation. God said, “…Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, AMPC).
God is in control of all things, all nations, all people, including rulers, kingdoms, and dominions. He speaks, and it is done. Those (the priests) who bore the ark of the Lord of all the Earth, and the Israelites, witnessed His miraculous power as they stepped into the Jordan River. The waters which flowed from the mountains “…stood and rose up in a heap far off…,” allowing them to cross over the river on dry ground (Joshua 3:16-17, AMPC).
In July 2026, in Guyana, there were the tragic circumstances of the capsized ferry bearing over one hundred and seventy passengers, resulting in the loss of the lives of almost half that number – a stark reminder of the unpredictability of disasters. Despite this tragedy, God can still shield His people from harm and lead them safely through any storm when they cry out to Him in distress. He alone chooses!
Facing impossible odds at the Red Sea with nowhere to run and Pharaoh’s large army bearing down on them, the people were told: “…stand still (firm, confident, undismayed) and see the salvation of the Lord…” (Exodus 14:13, AMPC). A mighty deliverance was wrought at the Red Sea, and there was rejoicing by the Israelites who were no longer slaves.
God is still the same God today, and what He did at the Red Sea, He can do anywhere else. The earth is His!
Prayer
God, You are a Mighty Deliverer, and we praise You with all our hearts. We admit that in the midst of trials, we become fearful and begin to entertain doubts, but Your Word assures us that You are a very present help in the time of trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, according to Your Word in Psalm 46:2. We give You thanks, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Deuteronomy 10:14; Psalm 27:13
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 93; 1 Corinthians 5; 1 Chronicles 28; 1 Chronicles 29