Churches and workplaces often publicize their vision or plan for the future. And, as individuals, we are encouraged to be forward-thinking. Financial advisors and health care professionals remind us to live in a way now that will benefit us in years to come. But it is also important to consider our past.
After the entire nation passed through the rocky bed of the Jordan River and landed safely on the other side, the only thing that stood in the way of the land promised to them was an all-out war (3:17; 4:1). We can imagine the warriors sharpening their swords, tightening their belts, and strategizing their combat tactics with one another. However, before the Lord instructed them to move forward, He wanted them to take a step back and remember.
A leader was selected from each of the 12 tribes. They were told to go into the dried riverbed where the priests remained with the Ark of the Covenant, choose a large stone, and carry it back to the camp (v. 2). In Gilgal, Joshua built an altar to the Lord and declared that the stones would serve as a reminder for all the Israelites for generations to come (v. 7). When children would ask their parents the meaning and purpose of the stones, Joshua instructed them to pass on the miraculous story of their river crossing. They were to emphasize the presence of Yahweh as they stepped into their promised territory (vv. 21–24). Their mission was not only to occupy the Promised Land but also to remind their descendants that the Lord was and had been with them.
>> Is there something that can remind you of God’s guidance and grace in your life? Maybe it is a special necklace, a newly planted tree, a sticky note, or even a stone. Use this object as a reminder of what God has done in your life. One day, your grandkids might ask, “What does that mean?”
Pray with Us
Today’s devotional prompts us to thank God for His guidance and grace in our lives. During your prayer time, remember specific instances of God leading you and praise Him for His care for you.
BY Dr. Chris Rappazini
Dr. Chris Rappazini believes “the Bible is still relevant, leadership is essential, and the church’s best days are still ahead.” Chris is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, the University of Edinburgh, and Gonzaga University. He served as Associate Professor of Pastoral Studies at Moody Bible Institute. Chris and his wife, Ashley, and their children now reside in North Carolina.