“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
In Joshua 3, the people of God are finally about to leave the wilderness and are approaching the Jordan River. Verse 15 says that the river is at “flood stage,” and water was likely as high as twelve feet. At the time the Israelites were glad to be out of the dry desert, they now faced the raging waters of a river they must cross.
The rushing waters undoubtedly frightened them. It was up to the priests to take the first step. The river did not recede until they left fear behind and until their feet touched the water. It seems that God rarely calls us to “cross over” when conditions are perfect. He often moves in us during “flood stages” of our lives— when our resources are lowest and the obstacle is its highest—so that the eventual victory is undeniably His.
The priests didn’t see the water stop; they had to trust it would stop based on God’s Word. And dry ground appeared only after the priests took the risk of getting wet. Amid our fears, the Holy Spirit helps us move forward. Our breakthrough is often on the other side of our first step of obedience.
The rushing waters undoubtedly frightened them. It was up to the priests to take the first step. The river did not recede until they left fear behind and until their feet touched the water. It seems that God rarely calls us to “cross over” when conditions are perfect. He often moves in us during “flood stages” of our lives— when our resources are lowest and the obstacle is its highest—so that the eventual victory is undeniably His.
The priests didn’t see the water stop; they had to trust it would stop based on God’s Word. And dry ground appeared only after the priests took the risk of getting wet. Amid our fears, the Holy Spirit helps us move forward. Our breakthrough is often on the other side of our first step of obedience.
Scripture Focus
Joshua 3:13-17
Insight
Realize that “wet feet” are a prerequisite for “dry ground.” What is one specific act of obedience you have been delaying?
Bible In A Year
- Esther 9-10
- Psalm 42
- Luke 5