All the years Israel wandered in the wilderness, the cities of Canaan feared the day when this nation would come with God’s mighty power. Israel finally began to trust God, and the man God had anointed. God now had this nation ready to take the land. They would respond to Him and follow Him in faith.
The Word came now from God, saying, “Sanctify yourselves; for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you” (Joshua 3:5). This final instruction was needed to complete their preparation. In order for God to do wonders among them, they had to consecrate themselves.
The same is required of us today. God said the wonders would come. But if they are to come, it will require consecrating ourselves to God. No more holding back, but fully cooperating with Him.
Next, the priests of God, the Levites, were to carry the Ark of the Covenant, which was the place of God’s presence, and stand at the river Jordan. Then they were to dip their feet into the water. It was the presence of God that divided the waters, but it was the remnant of God’s people that carried His presence. Only the tribe of the Levites was allowed to come near the ark.
Today there is a remnant of people that will truly walk with God and in confident obedience carry His presence into any obstacle that lies before them. It is the people of fearless faith who carve the way through circumstances in order to bring freedom to the people God loves.
By their obedience, the priests of God caused the river to stand at attention as the holy nation passed over on dry ground.
And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed clean over Jordan. (Josh. 3:17)
As the nation walked onto the new land, God immediately directed them to take stones from the river and build a memorial. It was to be made with one stone for each of the 12 tribes of the nation.
Victory came because the Levites were willing to carry God’s presence. The victory belonged, however, to the entire nation. Each tribe would have a part of the memorial to God’s faithfulness. Their victory would testify to people for generations to come that God fulfills His Word. Our lives testify to people too, but does it testify God’s victory? Notice Psalms 92:12,15:
The [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like the palm tree [be long-lived, stately, upright, useful and fruitful]; he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic, stable, durable and incorruptible]…[They are living memorials] to show that the Lord is upright and faithful to His promises; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him (AMP).
Our lives can be living proof that God is faithful to His promises. We can reflect the greatness of God and His willingness to bring His best to anyone. Everyone wants success in life. People want the results of following God, but not everyone is willing to make the changes that will bring Gods success. Joshua was willing!
When the day for action comes, will you stand fearlessly and allow God’s influence in your life?
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Vikki and Dennis began as youth pastors in 1973 in Southern California where they received tremendous insight into the work of the local church. In 1976, they moved to Ft. Worth, Texas, to work with Kenneth Copeland Ministries. Vikki worked with KCM for three years before entering full-time ministry with her husband. Since that time, their relationship and involvement with Kenneth Copeland Ministries has continued. Vikki and Dennis have had numerous articles published in the Believer's Voice of Victory magazine.
Vikki has spoken in several nations including Australia, Japan, and Canada. She has ministered on television, radio, in women's conferences and marriage seminars. Her desire is to see people raised to a higher level of living through the Word of God. By acting on Gods principles, Vikki has obtained a testimony of victory and imparts encouragement to others.
Throughout the years, Vikki and Dennis have pursued new avenues of reaching people. The Lord has continued to expand their vision. Their dedication has affected thousands as they are impacting God's people with the love of God.