But there was one last barrier in their way: the Jordan River. And its fast-flowing waters were at flood stage (Josh. 3:15).
No doubt the Canaanites were pleased by the timing. They had probably heard about Israel?s victories east of the Jordan. But with the river at flood stage, they felt protected. To them, the flooded waters showed Baal?s power to save them from the Israelites? invasion.
The Israelites had reached a monumental moment: they could either trust in God?s power and step into the dangerous river, or they could disobey God?s commands to enter the Promised Land because of their fear. God?s people made their decision: They broke camp and prepared to cross.
The priests carried the ark of the covenant—a symbol of God?s presence—to the edge of the river. Looking at the water below, they were probably terrified of what would happen if they stepped in.
But trusting God, the priests took the first step into the Jordan. Immediately, the river water stopped and the people could pass through on dry ground (Josh. 3:16). The pagans who had trusted in Baal were stunned to see that Israel?s God had power over both nature and their fertility gods.
