A Reminder to Future Generations

Joshua 4:15–24
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Men are always building monuments to memorialize the achievements of man. But where are the monuments to display the goodness and greatness of God? In this passage we find just such a memorial as it points to the crossing of the multitudes of Israelites as they passed over the dry riverbed of the Jordan when it was at flood stage (vv. 22-24). There is nothing wrong with memorials, provided they don’t become religious idols that turn our hearts from God.

Joshua was told by God to direct 12 previously chosen men to carry 12 stones from the riverbed to Gilgal, which was about 2 miles from Jericho. With these stones they were to build a memorial which would be a vivid reminder of God’s work of deliverance. The real purpose was to remind Israel for generations to come that it was God who brought them over the Jordan River on dry land, just as he had taken their fathers through the Red Sea (v. 23).

In the Jewish home a father was not to send his children to some Levite or religious leader to get his questions answered but was to answer it himself. How much better it would be today if Christian parents would answer the questions of their children instead of sending them to a Sunday School Teacher or Pastor for the answer. Christian parents have no right to forfeit their God given responsibility to teach their children concerning the faithfulness and power of God (Deut. 6:4-9). Is it any wonder that parents who refuse to accept their responsibility are losing their children to the world and the devil?

Application

Just as the Lord gave Israel experiences to look back on that would strengthen their faith in the future, so he wants to do with me. He gives me experiences today that will strengthen my faith when I need it tomorrow.