Get Ready, A 3-Day Devotional by Elevation YTHSample

Yesterday, we read in Joshua 3 about how God’s people had to get prepared for their miracle. But today, let’s imagine what it must have been like to step into their miracle. They literally had to step into the river, which was the barrier between them and their promise. 

The Bible tells us in Joshua 3:15 that the river was overflowing because it was springtime. The Jordan was not a peaceful body of water in the midst of this miracle. It was a raging river, overflowing with currents that could have potentially reached up to 10 mph. Not ideal swimming conditions, even if you’re Michael Phelps. 

And the Bible tells us God’s people camped by the Jordan River for three days before crossing it. When you imagine that scene, it’s easy to understand how their confidence could have been swept away by the river that taunted them. For three days, they must have wondered, “Is there any other way to get what God has promised?”

Have you ever looked at an obstacle and thought there was no way you could get through it? Maybe you’re there right now — wishing you could get to the other side of a situation, addiction, or heartache — but the flood of emotions you’re experiencing feels like too much to wade through. Perhaps you’re worried that trying to cross your “personal Jordan River” might be the thing that takes you under. 

But just like God wasn’t surprised by COVID-19 this year, He wasn’t surprised by a raging river in the Old Testament, and He’s not surprised by the flood of emotions in your heart today. In fact, God chose the time when the river was at its highest to demonstrate His power. No detail in this story is accidental and the same is true in your life.

The story goes on to tell us that as soon as “their feet touched the water at it’s edge” the water flowing downstream stood still and was cut off. Don’t miss this important piece of the story. The river didn’t part until their feet touched the water’s edge. 

They had come close to God and listened to His words. They had spent time preparing their hearts. But their focus wouldn’t have mattered if they didn’t have the faith to take a step. 

It takes faith to move towards the thing that scares you, leaving God to fulfill His promise in His timing. But that’s the kind of faith that unlocks miracles. 

And that’s the kind of faith we want Elevation YTH to bring into YTHX2020. We don’t just want you to come in prepared. We want you to come in positioned for a miracle. 

Maybe this summer you need to take a step away from something that’s holding you back. Or maybe God is calling you to step up and lead in your circle of influence. Or perhaps what you need to do is stand firm. Maybe you’ve taken a step, and you’re still waiting on the waters to part. Don’t retreat back into the wilderness while you wait on your miracle. 

Let’s step into the miraculous together during YTHX2020! 

Think It Through: 

1. What’s your personal “Jordan River” — the thing you want to get through or over? 
2. What steps is God calling you to take?