A Simple Reflection on Trust, Faith, and God’s Miracles
The story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River is one of the most powerful examples of faith and God’s intervention in the Bible. Let’s break it down in simple, everyday language and see what it means for us today.
The Picture: Standing at the Edge
Imagine you’ve been wandering for years, hoping for something better—maybe a new job, a restored relationship, or a breakthrough you desperately need. That’s where the Israelites were. For forty years, they wandered through the desert, waiting to finally step into the land God had promised their ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
But before they could enter, there was one final obstacle: the Jordan River. And it was overflowing.
God’s Plan Unfolds
God told Joshua, their leader, to get everyone ready because something amazing was about to happen. The people were probably nervous—some excited, some anxious. They had come so far, but now the river stood in the way. Yet, God promised He would go ahead of them. The priests carried the ark of the covenant (a special, holy box representing God’s presence) and, as soon as their feet touched the water, the river stopped flowing. The people walked across on dry ground!
The Miracle and the Meaning
This wasn’t just a cool trick—it was God showing His power and reminding them that He was with them. He had done something similar years earlier at the Red Sea. By stopping the Jordan, God was saying, “I am still here; I still keep my promises.” To remember this moment, the Israelites built a memorial out of twelve stones from the riverbed, so everyone would remember what happened.
What Does This Mean for Us?
Life is full of “Jordan Rivers”—challenges or obstacles that stand between us and the things we hope for. Sometimes, it seems impossible to move forward. But the story shows that even when things look tough or hopeless, God can make a way where there seems to be no way.
Are you waiting for a promise to come true? Maybe you’ve been struggling for a long time, waiting for something to change. It’s normal to feel afraid or anxious when facing the unknown, just like the Israelites did. The important thing is to keep trusting that God is with you, even when you don’t see the answer yet.
Look for the Signs
God told the Israelites to set up markers—stones of remembrance—so they wouldn’t forget what He did. In our lives, too, it’s important to remember the times when things worked out, when prayers were answered, or when help showed up at just the right moment. These reminders help us keep going when the next challenge comes.
The Takeaway
Crossing the Jordan isn’t just a story from the past. It’s a reminder that God is still leading us, even today. When you feel stuck or overwhelmed, remember that God’s promises are true. He can make impossible things possible and provide what you need, even if it doesn’t look like it yet.
So, whatever your “Jordan River” is—whether it’s finances, relationships, health, or something else—trust that God is right there with you. Step forward in faith, and watch how He leads you into your own promised land.
Blessings to you on your journey!
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 