Be Ready - The One Year Salt and Light Devotional
Be Ready
Joshua 3:14-17
It was the harvest season, and the Jordan was overflowing its banks. (Joshua 3:15)
IF YOU TELL THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU that your mission in life is to be salt and light in the world, some may be offended. They might assume you see them as targets, or consider yourself superior, or are trying to change their beliefs. They may not understand that you are only interested in representing your Father, seeking to overcome the evil in this world with his love, giving yourself to the ways of his Kingdom rather than the ways of self, and living in a spirit that openheartedly invites others into his purposes, but never against their will. They may have to be convinced that you love and value them for who they are, regardless of what they believe—which, if you are really reflecting the heart of your Father, you do. You may have some considerable barriers to cross.
That’s why the illustration of Joshua and the Israelites crossing the Jordan River is so appropriate to our mission in life. The Jordan, then and now, is hardly an intimidating obstacle most times of year. But the Israelites approached its banks at harvest time, which was flood stage. The waters swelled, and crossing would be difficult. God’s people needed him to act on their behalf if all of them were to make it across safely.
Culturally speaking, we live in a “flood stage” of boundaries between Christian and non-Christian perspectives. Crossing them may seem impossible. Perhaps you’ve even given up. But God’s message through Joshua is that flood stage is the perfect time for him to harvest. Miracles happen when we allow him to precede us and then follow where he leads. He is a master of making a way where there is no way, of overcoming barriers and giants and fears. He wants us to be ready even in the most unlikely times.
So be ready. Scan your horizon for impossible barriers and watch for God to part them. When he does, move forward—wisely, respectfully, even subtly at times. Waters subside for those who are willing to wade into them by faith.
{Lord, you are the master of miracles in my life. May I never be unprepared for them. Open my heart to where you are working, and give grace to my steps. Make a way for me through the waters that flow against your Kingdom. Amen.