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
God often provides stability in the most unlikely places. This truth is powerfully illustrated in the book of Joshua, where we encounter a remarkable demonstration of God’s ability to create safety and security even in the midst of chaos.
The Israelites faced a daunting obstacle: the Jordan River at flood stage. This wasn’t a gentle stream but a dangerous, swollen river that threatened to sweep away anyone who dared to cross. Yet, in this moment of potential disaster, God demonstrated His power in a remarkable way.
As the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the rushing waters, a miracle occurred. The river stopped flowing, piling up in a heap far upstream. But the miracle didn’t stop there. The Bible specifically mentions that the Israelites crossed on “dry ground.”
This detail is significant. God didn’t just provide a way across; He ensured solid footing for His people. Amid what should have been muddy, slippery terrain, the Israelites found firm, dry ground. This mirrors God’s complete and thorough care for His children.
In our lives, we often face our own “Jordan Rivers” – circumstances that seem impossible to overcome. These might be financial difficulties, health crises, relationship problems, or spiritual struggles. Like the flooded Jordan, these issues can appear overwhelming and impassable.
Yet, the same God who parted the Jordan and provided dry ground for the Israelites is with us today. He doesn’t just move obstacles out of our way; He provides firm footing for us to walk on. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you” (Isaiah 43:2).
The dry ground in the midst of the Jordan serves as a powerful metaphor for the stability God offers in our most chaotic moments. It reminds us that even when everything around us is in turmoil, God can create a place of peace and security right where we are.
Renowned pastor and author Charles Spurgeon once said, “God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” This echoes the truth we see in the Jordan crossing – even when we can’t understand how God will make a way, we can trust that He will.
Godseekers, as you navigate the turbulent waters of life, remember the miracle at the Jordan. The God who provided dry ground for the Israelites is the same God who walks with you today. He is able to create stability in your most unstable moments and provide firm footing when everything around you seems to be sinking sand.
Remember, just as the Israelites had to step into the water before it parted, sometimes we must move forward in faith to see God’s miraculous provision. May you find the courage to step out onto the dry ground God is preparing for you, even in life’s most turbulent waters.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being our rock and our fortress. When life’s challenges threaten to overwhelm us, help us remember Your faithfulness. Create dry ground beneath our feet in the midst of our turbulent waters. Give us the faith to step forward, trusting in Your power and provision. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
- What are the “turbulent waters” in your life right now? How can you invite God to create “dry ground” in these situations?
- Recall a time when God provided stability in a chaotic situation in your past. How can this memory strengthen your faith for current challenges?
Step of Faith
This week, identify one area of your life that feels unstable or overwhelming. Commit to spending focused time in prayer each day, asking God to provide “dry ground” in this situation. As you pray, actively look for signs of God’s stabilizing presence and work in your circumstances.
