“And it came to pass, when the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord were come up out of the midst of Jordan, and the soles of the priests’ feet were lifted up unto the dry land, that the waters of Jordan returned unto their place, and flowed over all his banks, as they did before.”
Context:The book of Joshua records the account of the Israelites entering the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua after wandering in the wilderness for forty years. Joshua 4 describes the crossing of the Jordan River, a significant event in Israel’s history.
Crossing the Jordan:In this verse, we see the fulfillment of God’s promise to Joshua to part the waters of the Jordan River, similar to how He had done with the Red Sea during the time of Moses (Exodus 14). The priests who carried the Ark of the Covenant, representing the presence of God, stepped into the flooded Jordan River. As they did, the waters miraculously stopped flowing and piled up, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land.
Significance of the Ark of the Covenant:The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred container that housed the tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolising God’s covenant with His people. It represented God’s presence among the Israelites. The fact that the waters of the Jordan River only stopped when the priests carrying the Ark stepped into it highlights the importance of God’s presence in their midst.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Faith and Obedience:The priests had to step into the river before the waters parted. It required faith and obedience to trust that God would perform the miracle as He promised. Similarly, in our own lives, we are called to step out in faith and obedience, trusting that God will make a way for us.
- God’s Faithfulness:The crossing of the Jordan River demonstrated God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. He had promised to give the Israelites the land, and He made a way for them to cross over. We can trust that God is faithful to His promises, and He will provide for us in every circumstance.
- Remembering God’s Miracles:The Israelites were instructed to set up twelve stones as a memorial at Gilgal, where they camped after crossing the Jordan. This was to serve as a reminder for future generations of God’s faithfulness and His miraculous works. It is essential for us to remember the times when God has intervened in our lives and to share those testimonies with others.
- God’s Power over Nature:The miracle of the Jordan River crossing illustrates God’s power over nature. He can suspend or alter the laws of creation for His purposes. It reminds us that nothing is too difficult for God, and He is in control of all things.
Application:
- Trust in God’s Promises:Just as God fulfilled His promises to the Israelites, we can trust in His promises for us today. We should cling to His Word and have faith that He will be faithful to His promises.
- Step out in Faith:Sometimes, God calls us to take bold steps of faith, even when the situation seems impossible. When we obey His leading, He can perform miracles in our lives.
- Remember God’s Faithfulness:It is crucial to remember and recount God’s faithfulness in our lives. Take time to reflect on the ways God has worked in your life, and share those testimonies with others to encourage their faith.
- Recognise God’s Power:The crossing of the Jordan River reminds us of God’s power and authority. It encourages us to have a proper understanding of God’s sovereignty and to approach Him with reverence and awe.
In summary, Joshua 4:18 recounts the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River as the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the flooded river, and the waters ceased to flow. This event highlights the faithfulness of God, His power over nature, and the importance of trust and obedience in our relationship with Him. It encourages us to trust in God’s promises, step out in faith, remember His faithfulness, and recognise His power in our lives.
