“Joshua said to the Israelites, ‘Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God. This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you.'”
Joshua 3:9-11 (NIV)
Have you ever stood at the edge of a seemingly impossible situation, wondering how you’ll ever make it through? The Israelites found themselves in such a moment as they gazed upon the flooded Jordan River, their final obstacle before entering the Promised Land. After forty years of wandering, they faced one last test of faith – a test that would require more than just belief, but bold, obedient action.
In this pivotal moment, Joshua’s words ring out with authority and promise. He doesn’t just tell the people what to do; he reminds them of who their God is – the living God, the Lord of all the earth. This isn’t merely a theological statement; it’s a call to trust in a God who is active, present, and all-powerful.
The power of obedient faith lies not in our own strength, but in the object of our faith. Joshua points the Israelites’ attention to the ark of the covenant – the symbol of God’s presence and promises. By focusing on God’s faithfulness rather than the rushing waters before them, the Israelites are prepared to take the leap of faith required.
Obedient faith often calls us to step out before we see the full picture. The Israelites were promised that God would drive out their enemies, but first, they had to cross an uncrossed river. Sometimes, God’s greatest miracles await us on the other side of our obedience.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” These profound words from Corrie ten Boom, the Dutch Christian who helped many Jews escape the Nazi Holocaust, encapsulate the essence of obedient faith – trusting in God’s character and promises even when the path ahead is unclear.
In our own lives, we face our own “Jordan Rivers” – obstacles that seem insurmountable. These might be financial struggles, health crises, relational conflicts, or spiritual doubts. Like the Israelites, we’re called to listen to God’s words, remember His faithfulness, and step out in obedient faith.
The beauty of obedient faith is that it allows us to participate in God’s miraculous work. When we step out in trust, we create space for God to move in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Our obedience becomes the conduit through which His power flows.
Godseekers, today you may be standing at the edge of your own Jordan. Remember, the same God who parted waters for the Israelites is with you. His power hasn’t diminished, and His promises haven’t failed. Will you choose to exercise the power of obedient faith? Your act of obedient faith today could be the key that unlocks God’s miraculous work in your life and in the lives of those around you. Step out boldly, for the living God goes before you!
Prayer
Lord, increase our faith. Help us to trust in Your promises and to step out in obedience, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. May we, like the Israelites, experience the power of Your presence as we follow You. Give us the courage to take that first step of faith, knowing that You go before us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
- What “Jordan River” are you currently facing in your life? How might God be calling you to step out in faith?
- Recall a time when your obedient faith led to experiencing God’s power. How can this memory encourage you in your current situation?
Step of Faith
This week, identify one area where God is calling you to step out in obedient faith. It might be forgiving someone, starting a new ministry, or addressing a long-standing issue. Take one concrete step towards obedience, trusting God to work as you move forward.
