READING: Joshua 3:1-7 (NKJV)
1 Then Joshua rose early in the morning; and they set out from Acacia Grove and came to the Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they crossed over. 2 So it was, after three days, that the officers went through the camp; 3 and they commanded the people, saying, “When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, the Levites, bearing it, then you shall set out from your place and go after it. 4 Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure. Do not come near it, that you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before.”
5 And Joshua said to the people, “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you.” 6 Then Joshua spoke to the priests, saying, “Take up the ark of the covenant and cross over before the people.” So they took up the ark of the covenant and went before the people.
7 And the LORD said to Joshua, “This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.
As we stand on the precipice of a new year, the words from Joshua 3:4 resonate deeply: ‘you have not passed this way before.’ The closing days of 2023 prompt reflection on a year filled with challenges and sorrows for many. Now, with 2024 about to unfold before us, we find ourselves at the threshold of uncharted territory, much like the Israelites preparing to enter the Promised Land.
In Joshua chapter 3, the Israelites, after forty years in the wilderness, were about to cross the River Jordan. This significant crossing marked a transition from the familiar to the unknown, mirroring our own journey into the coming year. Here are some insights from Joshua 3:1-7 that can guide us as we step into the uncharted terrain of 2024:
Relying on God’s Presence
In verse 3, the Israelites are instructed to follow the Ark of the Covenant, representing God’s presence (Exodus 25:22a). To navigate the challenges of the unknown, they must keep their eyes fixed on the Ark. Similarly, in 2024, we need to rely on God’s presence, avoiding the temptation to blindly follow the crowd. Fixing our gaze on the Lord and following where he leads will guide us through unfamiliar situations.
Relying on God’s Power
Joshua’s call to the people to sanctify themselves in verse 5 precedes a promise of wonders from the Lord. The Israelites faced a daunting obstacle – the flooded Jordan River (v.15). Yet, their obedience activated God’s power, parting the waters for their safe passage. As we enter 2024, this reminds us to rely on God’s power to overcome obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Obedient faith can unleash divine wonders in the midst of fear and uncertainty.
Relying on God’s Promise
God’s reassurance to Joshua in verse 7 echoes through time: ‘As I was with Moses, so I will be with you.’ Just as God kept His promises to the saints of old, he remains faithful today. In the unknown terrain of 2024, we can rely on God’s promises. His enduring presence, power, and faithfulness will carry us through whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.
As we embark on the uncharted journey of 2024, let us heed the lessons from Joshua 3:1-7. Embrace God’s presence, trust in his power, and hold fast to his promises. The unfamiliarity of the path ahead is an invitation to step out in faith, for, as Joshua 3:4 reminds us, ‘you have not passed this way before.’ Throughout the year ahead may we be guided by God’s grace and marked by a steadfast reliance on him. Happy New Year!
Written Exposition 