In their epic journey to the Promised Land, the LORD led His people through various kinds of situations whereby He revealed His arm of strength that worked on their behalf. The miracle of crossing the Red Sea with Moses their leader was a precedent to the crossing of the Jordan which now is before them. Joshua who is now in charge of God's people people is given this assignment to take His children across the Jordan. God Almighty encourages Joshua,  “…as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.” How was the Lord with Moses? In Exodus 3, when God commissions Moses to return to Egypt to bring forth His people, he asks God a question,  "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?”  And God's answer was:  "I will be with you…"  Henceforth, Moses experienced the presence of God always.  Since the time of saving his people from the  "jaws” of the demanding Pharaoh, to the crossing of the Red Sea, the difficult times they faced in their forty year wilderness journey, the times of the people s rebellion to God—in good times and bad, Moses experienced the very presence of God with him. He earned the name-the most humble man on the face of the earth (Num.12:3). 

Joshua now is assured of God’s presence at the juncture of his life when he is at the threshold of taking up the leadership. God promised him, “Have I not commanded you? 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). Now again as they are nearing the banks of the tumultuous Jordan River, God assures Joshua, as HE was with Moses, He would be with him. The Ark of the Lord, signifying the presence of God went before them and as the priests, stepped into the water, it receded and stood as a heap on one side, so that God’s people could pass through!

God’s assuring Presence is something we all long for every moment of our lives. The secret of these two men of God who felt His presence was that they were yielded vessels in His hands, willing to listen and obey His instructions.  Jesus illustrated to us our relationship with Him through the imagery of the vine and the branches- the abiding Presence of the Lord and His Word (John 15:1-8). He dwells in us through the Holy Spirit, "another Helper, who will abide with you forever.” (John 14:16).  Dear child of God, we have His constant presence with us forever!

What is the “Jordan” you are facing today? Is there any vexing circumstance in your life that is trying to overwhelm you? Are you trying hard to figure out the many puzzles in life? Let go and let His sweet presence bring comfort and strength.  HE will see you through the Jordan.  Remember His Word:

• Even though I walk through the valley of shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me… (Psalm 23:4)
• Jesus said, “Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age…” (Matthew 28:20)

May the constant, comforting Presence of the Lord be with you always!

Think on it:

Lord I come, I confess Bowing here I find my rest Without You I fall apart You're the one that guides my heart." 

[Lord I need You- Chris Tomlin]

Listen: 'Lord I need YOU'