“See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.”
Joshua 3:11-13 (NIV)
Have you ever felt like you were stepping into the unknown, unsure of what lies ahead? The Israelites faced such a moment as they stood at the edge of the Jordan River, poised to enter the Promised Land. After forty years of wandering, they were about to step into a new chapter of their story, filled with both promise and uncertainty.
At the heart of this pivotal moment was the ark of the covenant. This wasn’t just a religious relic; it represented the very presence of God among His people. The Hebrew word for “ark” is “aron,” which can also mean “chest” or “coffin.” But far from being a container for the dead, this ark was a vessel of the living God, carrying His promises and presence into unknown territory.
God’s instruction to send the ark ahead was a powerful statement of His leadership and protection. It wasn’t just about the Israelites’ courage or strength; it was about God Himself going before them into uncharted waters. This act was a visible reminder that in times of uncertainty, God’s presence is our surest guide.
The selection of twelve men, one from each tribe, was significant. It emphasized the unity of the nation in this moment of faith. When we face our own Jordans, we’re reminded that we’re not alone. We’re part of a community of faith, each playing a role in God’s unfolding plan.
“God does not give us overcoming life. He gives us life as we overcome,” said Oswald Chambers, the early twentieth-century Scottish Baptist evangelist. This profound statement encapsulates the essence of the Israelites’ experience at the Jordan. They weren’t promised an easy crossing; they were promised God’s presence as they stepped into the waters.
The promise that the waters would “stand up in a heap” was both thrilling and terrifying. It required the priests to take steps of faith before seeing the miracle unfold. Often, God’s greatest works in our lives require us to move forward in faith, even when we can’t see the outcome.
This account isn’t just ancient history; it’s a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual journeys. We all face moments when we’re called to step into unknown territories – new jobs, relationships, ministries, or personal challenges. Like the Israelites, we’re invited to carry God’s presence into these uncertain spaces.
Carrying God’s presence isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about trusting that the God who goes before us knows the way. It’s about believing that His presence is enough, even when the path ahead is unclear.
In our modern context, we don’t have a physical ark to carry. But we carry God’s presence through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, through our faith in His promises, and through our obedience to His Word. Every time we choose faith over fear, love over indifference, or obedience over comfort, we’re carrying God’s presence into new territory.
Remember, the same God who went before the Israelites goes before you today. He is still the Lord of all the earth, and His presence is still the game-changer in every situation. As you face your own Jordans, know that you don’t step into them alone. God’s presence goes before you, making a way where there seems to be no way.
Godseekers, today you may be standing at the edge of your own Jordan, feeling the weight of uncertainty. But take heart! The God who parted waters for the Israelites is with you. His presence is your assurance, His promises your foundation. As you step forward in faith, carrying His presence into your uncertain situations, watch in awe as He makes a way for you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unwavering presence in our lives. Like the Israelites carrying the ark, help us to carry Your presence into every uncertain situation we face. Give us the courage to step out in faith, trusting that You go before us. May Your presence be our comfort, our guide, and our strength as we navigate the unknown waters of life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
- What “Jordan” are you currently facing in your life? How can you intentionally carry God’s presence into this situation?
- Recall a time when you felt God’s presence guiding you through uncertainty. How can this memory strengthen your faith today?
Step of Faith
This week, identify one area of uncertainty in your life. Each day, take a moment to consciously invite God’s presence into that situation. It might be through prayer, meditating on a specific Scripture, or an act of obedience. As you do this, pay attention to how God’s presence changes your perspective and gives you strength to move forward.
