How can we teach future generations about God's miracles like in Joshua 4:22? Crossing the Jordan: The Original Lesson Plan “Then you shall tell them, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’” (Joshua 4:22) God did more than dry up a river. He built a teaching tool—a pile of twelve stones—to keep the story alive for every son, daughter, and grandchild who would one day ask, “What do these stones mean?” The passage shows that memorials, storytelling, and visible reminders are God-endorsed ways to pass on His mighty deeds. Why Remembering Matters • Scripture is historical fact; every miracle recorded actually happened (Psalm 105:5). • God wants each generation to trust Him based on both current experience and past evidence (Psalm 78:4-7). • Forgetting God’s works invites drift and eventual disobedience (Judges 2:10-12). Building Modern “Memorial Stones” 1. Tell the Story Straight from the Word • Read Joshua 3–4 aloud at home or church. • Explain that the same God who parted the Jordan rules today (Malachi 3:6). 2. Mark God’s Personal Interventions • Keep a family “miracle journal.” • Note dates, needs, prayers, and God’s answers. Revisit entries on birthdays or holidays. 3. Celebrate Redemption Milestones • Observe Communion regularly—our New-Covenant memorial (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). • Celebrate baptisms publicly, linking them to Israel’s crossing as another picture of deliverance (Romans 6:4). 4. Surround Life with Scripture • Post verses on walls, mirrors, and digital screens (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). • Memorize key passages as a family, then recite them during drives or meals. 5. Use Creative Expression • Encourage children to draw, paint, or dramatize the Jordan crossing. • Sing songs that recount God’s power—old hymns and new worship alike (Psalm 145:4). 6. Weave Testimony into Everyday Conversation • Share answered prayers at the dinner table. • Invite grandparents and church elders to tell their stories of God’s faithfulness (Joel 1:3). 7. Teach Obedience as Proof of Memory • Act on God’s commands promptly, showing that remembered miracles inspire current trust (James 1:22-25). • Serve together in ministry projects, tying service back to God’s past deliverances. Scriptural Reinforcements • Exodus 12:24-27 – Passover explained to children. • Deuteronomy 4:9 – “Do not forget the things your eyes have seen… teach them to your children and grandchildren.” • Psalm 103:2 – “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds.” • 1 Samuel 7:12 – Ebenezer stone: “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” • Luke 1:49-50 – Mary recalls God’s mighty deeds for future generations. Handing Off the Baton Passing on stories of God’s miracles is not optional; it is a divine command and a safeguard for faith. By lifting Scripture high, marking God’s acts, and integrating remembrance into home and church life, we obey Joshua 4:22 and set the stage for sons, daughters, and yet-unborn grandchildren to trust the Lord who still leads His people on dry ground. |
    |