RPG Adults
THE FINAL PREPARATIONS TO CROSS RIVER JORDAN
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14
Joshua 3
Psalm 44:1-4
“…O God:
command deliverances for Jacob.”
THE FINAL PREPARATIONS TO CROSS RIVER JORDAN
The crossing of River Jordan was a miraculous event in the whole exodus. It was the final move to inherit Canaan. It stands out in the history of Israel as God fulfilled His promise. When the appointed day came, they made the final preparations and crossed over into Canaan. Joshua charged the people on what to do and gave them assurance that God would fulfil all His promises. The occupation of Canaan was not easy; they were actually marching to war. Israel was ready.
Israel, removed from their last abode in Shittim, was on the edge of River Jordan. Joshua had appointed officers who commanded the people. After three days, the officers went through the host to give the final marching orders to the people. This was a massive undertaking because of the size of the population. It is estimated that Israel’s population then was about two million, which was the figure derived after a census was taken in Moab (Num 26). If all the tribes had an equal number of people, the nine-and-a-half tribes crossing the river would be about one hundred and fifty thousand people per tribe. The numbers are not accurate but it gives an idea of the size of the population that Joshua had to deal with. The actual crossing alone might have taken a whole day or two. The officers were on standby to communicate to the people any message that Joshua might give.
In the first order, the people were to go after the priests and the Levites who bore the Ark of the Covenant. They were instructed to keep a distance of about one hundred metres from the Ark. Joshua had given the details of the marching orders and all was set for the long-expected event. Every undertaking needs preparation and obedience. Israel was ready as they trusted the hand of God. They had known all His wonders those forty years.
THOUGHT: The LORD God is the God who keeps His promises.
PRAYER: Father, may Thy promises come true to me each day.