Step off the Shore
5-21-04

When Moses died, God assigned Joshua to the position of leadership. The people of Israel needed to know God approved of Joshua and would continue to direct them as they entered the land of Canaan. God was aware of this need and chose to work through Joshua as the people prepared to cross the Jordan river; "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses" (Joshua 3:7). Once across the Jordan, there would be MANY battles to fight; battles which would only be won by learning complete trust in God.

God told Joshua to have the priests carry the ark of the covenant directly into the raging Jordan, flowing at flood level during the harvest season. He promised that when the priests stepped into the water, He would cause the river bed to dry and the waters to be "cut off and stand up in a heap" (Joshua 3:13).

With all the Israelites waiting in great anticipation, the priests picked up the ark - their most honored possession - and took their greatest step of faith.

Joshua 3:15-16
"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."

God always teaches us about faith and trust by directing us down a path we think is too hard to travel - into circumstances we don't understand. After all, if we could clearly see and understand there wouldn't be a need for faith. But we often miss the opportunity to experience the true glory of God because we fail to obey and take the first step.

By working through Joshua, God gave the people confidence in their new leader. By requiring an initial action (the first step), He taught a valuable lesson on obedience and trust. The river did not gradually pull back as the priests approached. Nothing happened to the river until the priests left the safety of the shore and stepped into the water. God patiently waited for a full commitment before revealing His mighty hand.

I often hear from people who are hesitant about completely giving their lives to God. Mostly, they are scared. They are scared by what they can't see or understand, so they remain where they are. They desire to have a more fulfilling life but are paralyzed by the fear of what they may lose in the process. Oh, if we could only see how much we stand to gain by giving Him our all!

God is waiting. He's ready to pull back the flood waters and lead us into a bountiful new land - a land filled with His peace and true contentment. But we MUST commit. Let's trust Him with every area of our life. Let's take a firm hold of His hand and boldly step off the shore.

Have A Great Day!