A Life Consecrated To God
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Joshua 3:1-17 and Psalm 3 (NIV)
(Alvena Khoo, PTM, D&N)
READ:
Joshua’s instructions in Joshua 3:5 stood out for me. To the Israelites, Joshua told them to consecrate themselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things.
OBSERVE:
Joshua 3 marks another significant episode, just like Moses’ parting of the Red Sea. The chapter recounts the days before the Israelites prepared to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land, up to the crossing where God miraculously stopped the flowing of the flood at the Jordan River.
In preparation for this special moment, Joshua instructed the people to consecrate themselves. All the people needed to do the night before this significant event was to consecrate themselves. According to the law then, they were to carry out the ceremonial rites to make themselves pure and holy for God.
As for the Levitical priests carrying the ark of covenant, they were to lead the way. When they reached the bank of the river, all they needed to do was to let their feet touch the water’s edge and God would stop the rushing river from flowing.
APPLY:
This event shows the importance of being ready, pure and holy to see God’s amazing miracles. It also reminds leaders to have faith to go as the Lord commands even though there are obstacles before them.
Having just ended a personal year end retreat, I am reminded of the many blessings God has given me, as I reflect on Joshua 3, as well as His faithfulness and wonderful works in some challenges I faced in 2023. These include painful moments such as grieving the loss of three loved ones within a short span of four months.
Looking back, I can only declare His grace and goodness as I certainly didn’t have the faith or the purity of heart to obey in many situations. He “parted some rivers” just so I could cross. These were lessons in taking steps of faith when faced with challenges. The passage also reminds me of the importance of being consecrated for God so that I can see His leading, follow His guide and see His amazing work in each situation I face.
DO:
As 2024 begins, it is my desire to be pure and right for God. I want to consecrate myself for in 2024, the Lord will do amazing things.
I will consecrate myself by:
- Dedicating my heart to God daily.
- Reflecting on my motives with the Holy Spirit’s guide.
- Being Aware of my shortcomings and sins, and confessing them.
- Letting the Word of God be my anchor and my light.
PRAY:
Gracious God, You parted the Red Sea and the Jordan River for Your people. You helped me cross so many rivers in 2023 even when I didn’t deserve it. My heart is filled with thanksgiving as I step into 2024. I want to walk right with You. I will consecrate myself so I can see You do amazing things for Your people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
