How can we apply the faith shown in Joshua 3:15 to modern challenges? The Scene at the Jordan “Now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the harvest season. But as soon as the priests carrying the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water upstream stood still…” (Joshua 3:15-16) Key Features of Faith on Display • Stepping in first—before seeing any change • Trusting God’s timing—flood stage, not dry season • Bearing the ark—carrying God’s presence into the obstacle • Acting in unity—priests moved together as one Why This Matters for Us • God often calls for obedience before deliverance becomes visible. • He may choose the “flood stage” so only His power gets the credit (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Faith is inseparable from carrying His presence; we move with Him, not apart from Him (John 15:5). Modern Challenges That Mirror the Jordan • Stepping into a new vocation when the timing looks worst economically • Launching a gospel-centered ministry amid cultural opposition • Parenting or mentoring in an era that floods young minds with godless ideologies • Confronting personal sin patterns that feel too strong to break • Trusting God with finances when expenses are overflowing Practical Steps to Jordan-Crossing Faith 1. Recall God’s past interventions (Psalm 77:11-12). 2. Saturate the mind with His promises (Isaiah 43:2; Hebrews 13:5-6). 3. Move forward in the small next step rather than waiting for a full blueprint (Proverbs 3:5-6). 4. Surround yourself with fellow “priests” who will shoulder the load with you (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). 5. Expect God’s timing to stretch you; remain steady until the waters part (Galatians 6:9). Other Scriptural Reinforcements • Exodus 14:13-16—Moses raises the staff before the Red Sea divides. • 1 Kings 17:13-16—The widow gives Elijah her last meal before the jar is replenished. • Matthew 14:28-31—Peter steps onto the water before he feels its firmness. • Hebrews 11:6—“Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Living the Lesson Today Just as the priests’ wet sandals preceded dry ground, our obedience plants a sure footing for God’s power to be seen. Flood stages become faith stages, and modern Jordans turn into memorial stones that proclaim, “The living God is among us.” |
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