The Power of GOD’s Presence | Nisy John Panicker

After the death of Moses, the servant of the LORD, the LORD spoke to Joshua, Moses’ assistant, instructing him to lead the people of Israel into the land He had promised by crossing the Jordan. The LORD assured Joshua that no man would be able to stand against him all the days of his life. Joshua was strong and courageous, for the LORD was with him wherever he went. He was a leader who meditated on the Book of the Law day and night, knowing that his way would be prosperous and that he would have good success.

The first task Joshua had to undertake was to cross the Jordan in order to possess the land GOD had promised them. The Israelites camped near the Jordan for three days. During this time, they consecrated themselves as instructed by Joshua. He knew that the LORD would do wonders among those who lived in holiness. He had previously witnessed a similar miracle during the time of Moses at the Red Sea, which was made dry land (Exodus 14:21).

The priests, who were consecrated to the LORD, were instructed to take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people. The entire congregation was holy, and the LORD chose to exalt Joshua in the sight of all Israel. The LORD was with Joshua as He had been with Moses.

The Jordan overflows all its banks during the harvest season. But as soon as the feet of the priests bearing the ark touched the edge of the water, the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap, while those flowing down toward the Salt Sea were completely cut off (Joshua 3:15). GOD’s presence, which dwelled in His sanctified people, was so powerful that when they touched the very brink of a great adversity, it was halted.

The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firmly on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan until the entire nation had finished crossing over.

Another remarkable event was the setting up of twelve stones in the place where the priests carrying the ark had stood. These stones are said to be there to this day (Joshua 4:9). The overflowing Jordan could not wash away those stones, for they had been established in the presence of GOD. The Jordan returned to its place and overflowed all its banks as before once the soles of the priests’ feet were lifted onto dry ground (Joshua 4:18).

No trouble or obstacle can stand against a person who is under GOD’s presence. Even when facing trials and tribulations, he must remain steadfast, for the surpassing presence of the LORD dwelling within him will deliver him from them all. Once the LORD’s presence is withdrawn, the agonies return, and troubles persist. Therefore, let us seek and remain in the presence of GOD, for in Him we find victory, protection, and enduring peace.

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