It had been forty long years of wondering through the wilderness. Forty years of hardship and holding on to the hope of God’s promise that he had made to the Israelites..and an entire generation that had died because of their unbelief.
The Isrealites had now reached the long-awaited promised land, and God demonstrated his mighty hand by allowing them to once-again cross the river on dry land to enter in. This is the part of the story where we find ourselves in Joshua chapter four.
They had just crossed over, and God commands Joshua to gather twelve men (one from each tribe) to gather memorial stones.
Stones to remember…
We are so quick to forget aren’t we? Or maybe it’s just me? Now doubt God knew full-well the tendency of forgetfullness of his people. These memorial stones were places so that every time they would see them, they would be reminded of all that God had done for them thus far. Not only that, but they were to be used to tell their children and their children’s children, the stories of God’s faithfulness.
In the same way, I think it is wise for us to set up our own memorial stones in our lives. We will no doubt experience times of hardships and testings. It is during these times that we must remember how God has “parted the sea” for us in the past.
If you find yourself in a tough season right now, may I encourage your heart by reminding you that God is the same yesterday, today and forever my friend (Hebrews 13:8). He is still mighty to save, and He will help you in your time of need. Grab a journal and a pen, and begin to jot down every time God has come through for you this far….and be assured that He will do it again.