Crossing the Jordan River
(Joshua 1; 3-4)
July 20, 2025
Sunday Recap
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Sunday Recap •
Hey Fams!
In Joshua 1, we learn the Israelites were preparing to enter the Promised Land following the death of Moses. God spoke directly to Joshua, commissioning him as the new leader of His people. The Lord commanded Joshua three times to be strong and courageous as he was about to guide the Israelites across the Jordan River.
What instructions did God impart to Joshua? How would God reveal to Joshua—and the rest of the Israelites—that He would be with them, just as He promised?
God urged Joshua to continue walking in the promises He made to Moses (Joshua 1:3, 5). To do so, Joshua would have to commit to walking in God’s ways: being strong and courageous, observing Moses’ commands, and meditating on God’s Word. God reminded Joshua of His faithfulness and affirmed that He would exalt Joshua before all Israel. No one would be able to doubt that God chose Joshua to fulfill His promises.
Joshua commanded the Israelites to get ready for a miraculous move of God (Joshua 3:5)—a feat that would require faith. He then relayed God’s instructions for crossing the Jordan River. As the priests stepped into the river, the waters stopped flowing, and God’s powerful presence made a way for His people to safely cross into the Promised Land.
Teach the boys and girls in your care that, like the Israelites awaited God’s provision on their journey, we, too, need a miracle: to be made right with God the Father through faith in the Son. This gift of salvation cannot be earned; it is a gracious gift that demonstrates God’s power and love.
Also consider the impact of children’s curiosity in this story. God commanded the Israelites to memorialize this event by setting out 12 stones. When Israelite children and future generations asked the meaning of these stones, the people could use it as an opportunity to recount the Lord’s faithfulness. May this story instill within your kids the same sense of wonder the Israelites experienced. God’s faithful promises never fail, including His promise to save anyone who repents of sin and turns to Jesus by faith. Be prepared to share the story of how God saved you through faith in His Son. Pray for His gracious love to begin transforming your kids’ hearts and minds today.
** Next week: Conquering Jericho (Joshua 2-4; 6)
Family Discipleship Plan
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Family Discipleship Plan •
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Read Joshua 1; 3–4 from the Bible.
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The Gateway Arch stands 630-feet tall over the city of St. Louis, Missouri. Built in 1963, the arch is made of concrete and steel, and it weighs more than 43 tons! This impressive monument is meant to remember and celebrate the westward expansion of the United States that connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is known as the “Gateway to the West.”
Monuments like the Gateway Arch are meant to help people remember the past and symbolize important events. The practice of building monuments dates back to ancient history and can be seen many times throughout the Bible. After God miraculously stopped the Jordan River for the Israelites to pass through, He gave Joshua specific instructions for building a monument. The Israelites took 12 stones from the middle of the river, and they built a monument to remember what God had done. Whenever someone asked why those stones were there, the Israelites could retell the stories of their strong and mighty God.
Psalm 78:4 says, “…tell a future generation the praiseworthy acts of the Lord, his might, and the wondrous works he has performed.” Remembering the amazing things God has done helps us trust Him. We can also tell others about His wondrous works—like how He sent Jesus to save us from our sin—so that they might believe in Him.
God’s presence went before the people, and the waters of the Jordan were stopped. God’s people crossed safely into the Promised Land. Jesus went before God on behalf of sinners. All who trust in His life, death, and resurrection are saved from judgment and enter into eternal life.
Pray: Lord, we praise You because You have done great things! Help us remember all the amazing things You have done and to share those stories with others to help them know You. Amen.
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Who is the King of glory? The Lord, who is strong and mighty. The Lord, who is mighty in battle.
Psalm 24:8 NIrV
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Mornings
Praise God for one of His amazing works you’ve learned about from the Bible. How does remembering God’s works teach us more about who He is and what He can do for us?
Evenings
Praise God for one way He helped you today. How can God’s help today remind you to trust Him tomorrow? How can sharing the story of God’s work in your life help others trust in Him?
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For Fun
Make a memorial wall in your home. Use objects, photos, or drawings to help your family remember the amazing things God has done in and through your family. Take time sharing the stories with one another and praising God for His goodness.
To Serve
Visit an elderly friend, family, or church member. As you share a meal or visit together, ask the person to share stories of God’s faithfulness in his/her life. Encourage your kids to ask questions and listen to learn more about who God is and how He displays His power.