After 40 years in the wilderness, the Israelites were finally ready to enter the Promised Land. Moses had passed away, and Joshua was now their leader. God’s promise to Joshua was clear: “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Joshua 1:5).

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10 Questions about Salvation: 30 Devotions for Kids, Teens, and Families

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The first obstacle was the Jordan River, which was at flood stage. But God had a plan to lead His people into their inheritance. This is the story of Joshua and the Israelites Cross the Jordan River—a story of faith, obedience, and the miraculous power of God to lead His people into their inheritance.

Fun Fact: The Jordan River is about 156 miles long and flows from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea.

Link to Other Story: Discover how the Israelites crossed the Red Sea!

Joshua and the Israelites cross the Jordan River

Chapter 1: Preparing to Cross

The Israelites stood on the banks of the Jordan River, their hearts pounding with anticipation. The Promised Land was within sight, but the river was wide and wild, swollen from the spring rains. Joshua, their new leader, gathered the people and gave them a command that would change everything: “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.” (Joshua 3:5).

Consecration meant setting themselves apart—spiritually and physically—for God’s purpose. They were to examine their hearts, repent of any sin, and prepare to witness a miracle. This wasn’t just about crossing a river; it was about stepping into God’s promises with faith and obedience.

Joshua also sent two spies to scout the city of Jericho, the first stronghold they would face. The spies found an unlikely ally in Rahab, a woman who risked her life to protect them. Her faith in the God of Israel would later save her and her family (Joshua 2).

As the sun set, the Israelites camped by the river, their minds racing with questions. Would God really part the waters again, as He had done at the Red Sea? Joshua’s words echoed in their hearts: “The Lord will do amazing things among you.”

Chapter 2: The Waters Parted

The next morning, the air was thick with anticipation. Joshua instructed the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant—the sacred symbol of God’s presence—and step into the Jordan River. The people watched in awe as the priests obeyed, their feet sinking into the water’s edge.

Then, something extraordinary happened. The moment the priests’ feet touched the water, the river stopped flowing upstream. The waters piled up in a heap, creating a dry path through the riverbed. The Israelites crossed on dry ground, just as their parents had done at the Red Sea (Joshua 3:13-17).

This miracle wasn’t just about crossing a river; it was a declaration of God’s power and a confirmation of Joshua’s leadership. The Israelites knew that the same God who had parted the Red Sea was with them now, leading them into their inheritance.

Chapter 3: Memorial Stones

After the last Israelite stepped onto the far shore, Joshua gave a surprising command. He called twelve men—one from each tribe—to go back into the riverbed and collect stones. These stones were to be piled up as a memorial, a lasting reminder of God’s faithfulness (Joshua 4:1-9).

As the Israelites looked at those stones, they would remember the day God parted the Jordan River. They would tell their children and grandchildren about the miracle, ensuring that future generations would know the power and faithfulness of their God.

Chapter 4: A New Beginning

The crossing of the Jordan River marked a new chapter for the Israelites. They celebrated Passover, eating the produce of the land for the first time. The manna that had sustained them in the wilderness stopped, signaling the end of one season and the beginning of another (Joshua 5:10-12).

This was more than a physical crossing; it was a spiritual milestone. The Israelites were no longer wanderers—they were conquerors, stepping into the promises God had made to their ancestors.

What Can We Learn from This Story?

1️⃣ God’s Faithfulness: He keeps His promises, even if it takes time.
2️⃣ Obedience Brings Blessings: The Israelites’ obedience led to a miraculous crossing.
3️⃣ Remember God’s Works: The memorial stones remind us to reflect on God’s faithfulness in our lives.
4️⃣ New Beginnings: The Jordan River symbolizes leaving the past behind and stepping into God’s promises.

Discussion Questions:

• What’s one promise from God you’re waiting to see fulfilled?
• How can you create “memorial stones” to remember God’s faithfulness in your life?

Bible Verses to Remember

• “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
  —Joshua 1:9
• “The Lord your God did to the Jordan what He had done to the Red Sea.”
  —Joshua 4:23
• “He brought us out so that He might bring us in.”
  —Deuteronomy 6:23

Activity: Apply the Lesson!

1. Memorial Stones Craft: Gather small stones and write words or draw symbols to represent God’s faithfulness in your life.
2. Role Play: Act out the crossing of the Jordan River with friends or family. Who will play Joshua, the priests, and the Israelites?
3. Faith Journal: Write down a promise from God and record how He fulfills it over time.

More Stories to Explore:

• Elijah and the Prophets of Baal
• Stories of Resilience in the Bible