How can we prepare to follow God's lead as in Joshua 3:11? Setting the Scene After forty years in the wilderness, Israel camps beside the flooded Jordan. Ahead lies Canaan; behind, the desert. God instructs Joshua, the priests, and the people to step into the river and watch Him make a way. Key Verse “Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go ahead of you into the Jordan.” (Joshua 3:11) Why the Ark Matters • The ark represents God’s own presence, holiness, and covenant faithfulness. • Where the ark moves, God Himself moves. Israel’s task is not to forge a path but to follow His. • Literal, visible leadership converts fearful obstacles into opportunities for faith (cf. Numbers 14:9). Israel’s Preparation Checklist (Joshua 3:1-6) • Early rising: they start the day centered on God’s agenda, not their own. • Three-day lookout: time to quiet hearts, observe God’s movements, and let anticipation replace anxiety. • Following distance (about 2,000 cubits/3,000 ft.): reverence maintains clear focus; no crowding the holy. • Consecration: “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you.” (v. 5) Purity precedes power. • Priestly leadership: God-appointed servants carry the ark, modeling obedience under authority. Translating Preparation to Today 1. Clear your mornings • Start with the Word before the world (Psalm 119:105). • Offer first attention to God’s directions, just as Israel rose early. 2. Cultivate watchful waiting • Set aside intentional pauses to listen (John 10:27). • Hold plans loosely; expect God to reveal timing and specifics (Habakkuk 2:1). 3. Keep holy distance and holy nearness • Reverence: maintain awe of God’s majesty (Hebrews 12:28-29). • Relationship: draw near through Christ without presumption (Hebrews 4:16). 4. Pursue consecration • Repent quickly; keep accounts short (1 John 1:9). • Separate from anything that dulls spiritual sensitivity (James 4:8). 5. Follow ordained leadership • Honor biblical shepherds who carry the testimony of God (Hebrews 13:17). • Refuse murmuring; unite behind God-directed vision (Philippians 2:14-16). 6. Step in when the water’s still flowing • Faith takes the first step before the river parts (Joshua 3:15-16). • Trust God to hold back what threatens to overwhelm (Isaiah 43:2). Encouragement for the Journey God still goes ahead of His people. As we rise early, listen well, revere His holiness, consecrate our lives, submit to godly leadership, and step out in obedient faith, the same Lord “of all the earth” clears the path before us (Proverbs 3:5-6). |
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