That All May Know

After forty years in the wilderness, the Israelites finally were ready to enter the Promised Land. To mark the occasion, God commanded that they take twelve stones from the Jordan River and bring them to the other side. This was to be “a sign.” A memorial to help them explain to their children all that He had done.

When the priests carrying the ark stepped into the river, the waters stopped. Then, the waters returned when they emerged on the other side. Having crossed over, Joshua took those stones, and set them up at Gilgal. This was to be a reminder that all following generations would know the miracles that had taken place.

But there was one more purpose. That this might be a witness to “all the peoples of the earth.” This was to be a testimony to all nations, for all time. A reminder that He was the God who did miracles, who cared about His people and delivered them. Who kept His promises and gave them victory in battle.

The Hebrew word here translated “mighty” is the same word the Israelite spies had used to describe the peoples in the land (Numbers 13:31). It is as though God was reminding them that He alone was mighty.

These principles are still true. We should be sure our children know what He has done for us. But we also are to testify to others. This confirms the message Jesus gave to His disciples before He ascended into Heaven, that they were to be His witnesses (Acts 1:7-8).

This is our responsibility, too. Not to take His blessings for granted, but to let others know all that He has done for us. That “all the peoples of the earth may know.”