Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 3 - Thursday
“Crossing Waters, Experiencing God”
Scripture: Psalm 66:6, Psalm 114, Joshua 3:1–17, 2 Kings 2:6–15, Matthew 3:13–17, Hebrews 3:7–4:11
Reflection:
Psalm 66:6 declares, “He rules by His might forever; His eyes keep watch on the nations—let not the rebellious rise up against Him.” This verse reminds us that God’s power is both universal and personal—He rules over all creation while caring intimately for His people. The events in Joshua and the crossing of the Jordan River beautifully illustrate this truth. As the Israelites approached the Promised Land, the Jordan, swollen and impassable, became a symbol of human impossibility. Yet God’s power made a way, just as Psalm 66:6 affirms His might over all obstacles (Joshua 3:14–17).
Psalm 114 ties this moment to the crossing of the Red Sea, highlighting God’s consistency in delivering His people. The Red Sea parted for Moses, and the Jordan for Joshua—both rivers acting as divine markers of transition, from slavery to freedom, from wandering to rest. These events show that God’s power moves in history to secure His promises, not only in the past but for our present faith journey.
The Jordan River also serves as a backdrop for profound spiritual transformation. Elijah’s ministry culminated at the Jordan, where he parted its waters before being taken up to heaven, and Elisha crossed, receiving a double portion of Elijah’s spirit (2 Kings 2:6–15). The Jordan, therefore, symbolizes both God’s power and the passing of spiritual authority—an emblem of new life and divine calling.
Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan (Matthew 3:13–17) aligns perfectly with this theme. Here, the river marks a moment of consecration and divine approval, bridging heaven and earth. Just as the Jordan separated the Israelites from the wilderness, Jesus’ baptism points to a new beginning, confirming His identity as the Son of God and inaugurating His mission to bring redemption to humanity.
Hebrews 3–4 draws a direct line from the Israelites’ crossing into Canaan to the rest that awaits believers in Christ. Just as entering the Promised Land was a tangible experience of God’s promise, Christians are invited to enter a spiritual rest through faith in Jesus, anticipating the fullness of God’s kingdom at His return. The Jordan becomes a type of this spiritual passage—a movement from striving to resting in God’s completed work.
Application:
The waters of the Jordan, the Red Sea, and even the spiritual transformations that took place there remind us that God’s power is active, personal, and faithful. When facing obstacles, uncertainty, or transitions, we can trust the same mighty God who parted waters and fulfilled promises. We are invited to step forward in faith, knowing He goes before us, empowers us, and secures the rest He has prepared.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being the Commander over all creation and the One who makes a way when there seems to be no way. Help me to trust Your might, to walk in faith through the “rivers” in my life, and to rest in Your promises as You guide me to the inheritance You have prepared. Amen.
More: Memorials of Grace - Sabbath School Lesson 3 - The Lessons of Faith from Joshua
Sabbath School Quarterly Online: The Lessons of Faith from Joshua
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