“So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 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. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (that is, the Dead Sea) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 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 3:14-17 (NIV)
True leadership often requires stepping into the unknown, paving the way for others to follow. This truth is powerfully illustrated in the account of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River. The priests, carrying the ark of the covenant, were called to lead not from the rear, but from the very front lines of faith.
Have you ever been called to lead in a situation that seemed impossibly daunting? The priests carrying the ark of the covenant found themselves in such a position as they stood at the edge of the swollen Jordan River. They were tasked with not just leading, but leading by example – stepping into flood waters before anyone else.
The timing of this crossing was particularly challenging. The text specifically mentions that the Jordan was at flood stage, which typically occurs during the spring harvest. This wasn’t a gentle stream but a raging torrent. Yet, it was precisely at this moment of apparent impossibility that God chose to display His power.
The priests’ role in this crossing was crucial. They weren’t just ceremonial figures; they were the vanguard of faith. The Hebrew word for “touched” in this passage is “tabal,” which can also mean “to dip” or “to immerse.” It implies a deliberate, full commitment. These leaders didn’t tentatively test the waters; they fully committed to the path God had set before them.
God’s miraculous response to their obedience was immediate and awe-inspiring. The waters didn’t gradually recede; they stopped flowing altogether, piling up at a great distance. This wasn’t just a convenient crossing; it was an unmistakable display of God’s power and faithfulness.
“The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible,” said Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States and Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe during World War II. This quote resonates deeply with the priests’ actions. Their integrity – their wholehearted obedience to God’s command – set the stage for the entire nation’s success.
The priests didn’t just initiate the crossing; they sustained it. They stood firm in the middle of the riverbed until every last Israelite had passed. This steadfast commitment exemplifies true spiritual leadership – not just pointing the way, but standing firm in faith until all have safely crossed.
This account isn’t just an ancient story; it’s a powerful model for leadership today. Whether in our families, workplaces, or faith communities, we’re often called to step out first into uncertain situations. True leadership often means taking the first step of faith, standing firm in the face of challenges, and creating a path for others to follow.
The priests’ example teaches us valuable lessons about faith-filled leadership. It reminds us that leadership often requires stepping out before we see the full picture. It shows us that our obedience can be the catalyst for God’s miraculous intervention. And it assures us that when we step out in faith, God provides not just for us, but for all those we lead.
Remember, the same God who empowered these priests empowers leaders today. He still parts Jordan Rivers, still makes ways through impossible situations, and still honors the faith of those who step out first. As you face your own leadership challenges, know that God goes before you, making a way where there seems to be no way.
Godseekers, today you may be called to step out first in some area of your life. Be encouraged! Whether you’re leading a family, a team, or simply taking a stand for your faith, remember the priests at the Jordan. Your step of obedience, however small it may seem, can be the key that unlocks God’s miraculous power in your situation and in the lives of those you lead.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of leaders who step out in faith. Give us the courage to lead by example, to take those first steps of obedience even when the path seems uncertain. Help us to stand firm in Your promises, creating a way for others to follow. May our leadership always point others to Your faithfulness and power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
- In what area of your life is God calling you to step out as a leader? What’s holding you back?
- Recall a time when someone’s example of faith-filled leadership impacted your life. How can you embody that kind of leadership for others?
Step of Faith
This week, identify one situation where you need to take a leadership role. It might be in your family, workplace, or faith community. Take one concrete step to lead by example in this situation, trusting that as you step out in faith, God will make a way not just for you, but for those you lead. Remember, your act of obedience today could be the catalyst for a miracle tomorrow.
