Crossing the Jordan: Stepping into God’s Promises with Faith, Courage, and Action

There’s something powerful about stepping into the unknown, especially when you’re trusting God to guide the way. The story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River is more than just a historical event—it’s a reminder of what happens when we step out in faith and embrace God’s promises. It’s a journey of trust, courage, and obedience.

I’ve often wondered what it felt like for them, standing on the riverbank, facing an impossible barrier yet hearing God’s call to move forward. It’s a moment so many of us can relate to—those times when we’re on the edge of something new, unsure of what lies ahead but knowing God is calling us to take that first step. Crossing the Jordan wasn’t just about entering a new land; it was about stepping into a life fully aligned with God’s plan.

Overview Of Crossing The Jordan: Stepping Into God’s Promises

The story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River carries deep lessons about faith and trust in God’s plans. It shows how stepping into God’s promises often starts with an act of obedience, even when the outcome isn’t fully visible. For the Israelites, it wasn’t just about crossing a physical river—it represented entering a life shaped by God’s direction. They moved from wandering to inhabiting the land God had long prepared for them.

When I look at Joshua 3:13, it reads, “As soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.” This wasn’t a shallow brook; the river was at flood stage during harvest (Joshua 3:15). Yet, the priests stepped forward. That’s trust and action combining perfectly.

Obedience played a critical role. The priests walked into the river while it was still rushing, and only then did the waters part. That reminds me: faith often requires we take the first step, even while things look uncertain. It’s a challenge to align actions with trust, but stories like these encourage me to step forward, believing God’s promises will hold steady.

For us today, stepping into God’s promises might look different. Maybe it’s a new job, an apology you’ve been putting off, or surrendering control in an area of life. But the principles of faith, courage, and obedience remain the same. God positioned the Israelites for success when they leaned on Him fully, and His presence made all the difference. It wasn’t their strength; it was God’s power working through their obedience.

Hey there, it’s Adam Phillips. Over the past 20 years serving as a youth pastor, one of the most frequent questions I’ve heard is: “How do I trust God when everything around me is changing?” Whether you’re heading to college, starting a career, or facing unexpected challenges, trusting God in uncertain seasons is something we all wrestle with. Let’s dive into some practical insights straight from scripture—real steps to help you move forward faithfully when life feels a little shaky.

Key Themes And Messages

Trust is central to our relationship with God. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Sounds great, right? But putting this into action takes intentionality. The Israelites’ journey, particularly crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 3), is a perfect example. They were stepping into the unknown, yet God’s guidance never wavered.

1. Pause and Seek God’s Direction

First, in any season of change, slow down enough to pray and seek God’s will. Don’t rush decisions before spending time in His Word. For example, Joshua prepared Israel by instructing them to consecrate themselves (Joshua 3:5). Dedicate time daily to prayer, reflecting on what God is saying through scripture.

Ask yourself: What’s one clear step God’s calling me to take? Maybe it’s apologizing to someone, starting a new ministry, or practicing contentment during a wait.

2. Rely on His Promises, Not Self-Security

When transition stresses you out, turn to God’s promises instead of trying to control outcomes. Philippians 4:19 reassures us: “God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Rely on Him. Write down promises like this and repeat them when doubts creep in—the Israelites needed this reminder, too. Every step into the Jordan showed their reliance wasn’t on their logic or strength but Almighty God.

The Power of Overcoming Fear & Doubt Through God

Feeling overwhelmed? Yep, I’ve been there too. But fear loses its grip when you replace it with God’s truth. Remember Peter? He let doubt pull him under while walking to Jesus on water (Matthew 14:30). Fear distracts you from God, period.

Quick Tips for Conquering Doubt:

1. Surround Yourself with Encouragement – Include those who’ll remind you of God’s work when you feel stuck.
2. Memorize Scripture on Trust – Verses like Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you…” keep your mind focused on Him.
3. Journal Small Victories – Write when God answers prayers or shows up unexpectedly. Reading past moments builds confidence when doubts creep in.

If You Forget Everything Else…

Transitions test every believer, but they refine faith like nothing else. When you feel incapable, frustrated, or unsure—lean into His strength. Whether you’re crossing literal rivers of uncertainty or navigating everyday life drama, He always goes before you.

I hope these steps leave you better equipped to trust God fully! What’s your next move under His prompting? Do yourself a favor: spend time reflecting on that today.

Author: Adam Phillips

Writing Style And Tone

How do you take that first step into God’s promises when it feels like an uphill battle? I’ve served as a youth pastor for over 20 years, and I’ve seen countless people wrestle with change and uncertainty. But one thing always remains clear: God’s Word provides practical guidance for every situation we face. That’s why we’re diving into what it means to cross the Jordan in our lives—how stepping forward in faith allows God to work. Whether you’re navigating a new season, making a tough decision, or just seeking direction, this is for you.

Let’s break this down into actionable insights from scripture, focusing on truths you can apply today.

What Does Stepping Forward Look Like?

Stepping forward begins with a mindset shift and small actions. For the Israelites, the priests had to step into the Jordan River before it parted (Joshua 3:13). Imagine that first moment—the water rushing, the uncertainty. Yet, their obedience was what released God’s power.

1. Rely on Scripture: Find verses tied to your situation. For instance, if you’re feeling afraid, hold on to Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you.” Repeat it daily.
2. Act in Faith: Take one small but intentional step today. Thinking of changing jobs? Start by researching opportunities. Fixing a relationship? Send a kind message. Faith aligns with action.
3. Trust God’s Timing: Sometimes, you won’t see immediate results. Be patient, knowing God works behind the scenes when you’re obedient.

Practical Tips for Trusting God

Even with scripture, emotions like worry can linger. Let’s tackle that with practical actions:

• Pray consistently: Talk to God throughout the day. For example, when driving, say, “God, guide my decisions.” Simple prayers keep faith central.
• Memorize promises: Jot down promises like Jeremiah 29:11 or Proverbs 3:5-6, and revisit them until they’re second nature.
• Celebrate small victories: Keep track of God’s provision, even in the little things. Journaling helps you see His faithfulness over time.

Trust isn’t passive—it’s built daily through intentional choices.

Lessons From Adam’s Ministry

In my years as a youth pastor, I’ve seen teens and adults alike struggle with living out bold faith. I often encourage them to ask, “What’s one thing God’s asking me to do right now?” Start small, but stay consistent.

One teen felt led to repair their estranged relationship with a parent. They feared rejection but reached out anyway with a handwritten note. That single step opened the door to regular conversations and healing.

Your first step—however scary—paves the way for God to work in ways you couldn’t have imagined.

Scripture To Anchor Your Faith

Biblical truths ground us when the unknown feels overwhelming. Here are some key verses to reflect on:

Spend time meditating on these truths during quiet moments or devotions. They’re practical anchors that reinforce trust.

Ending Note

Each step you take with faith becomes an opportunity to see God move through your life. Cross the Jordan—whether that means tackling a fear, seeking reconciliation, or embracing a new season. God’s promises aren’t distant; they’re right in front of us when we’re willing to step forward.

Strengths Of The Book

Adam Phillips’ “The Witness” offers unique approaches for understanding biblical truths and applying them in daily life. Its blend of relatable stories, scriptural depth, and actionable advice makes it a valuable resource for readers seeking to strengthen their faith journey.

Inspirational Insights

Adam shares timeless lessons drawn from scripture, emphasizing their relevance for modern challenges. For example, when explaining the story of Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on water, Adam highlights the courage it takes to trust in God’s guidance despite fear. He connects this to everyday situations like making decisions under uncertainty, showing how faith can ground us.

The book also explores how God’s promises echo in our lives, using examples like the story of Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. Adam encourages readers to reflect on their unique callings, demonstrating that these biblical moments aren’t just historic but deeply personal. He frequently uses scripture like Proverbs 3:5-6 to remind readers to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart,” underscoring the idea that trust opens doors to God’s plan.

Practical Applications

Adam makes biblical principles accessible with clear, actionable steps. He suggests simple routines, like starting your day with a short prayer using psalms or journaling verses that resonate. This guidance helps readers build spiritual habits without feeling overwhelmed.

He also tackles real-world challenges, offering tips for staying anchored in faith during stressful times. Adam explains how memorizing scripture—such as Philippians 4:6-7 about presenting requests to God—can bring peace in anxious moments. He even includes a step-by-step guide for creating a scripture memory system, recommending writing verses on cards or using apps that send daily reminders.

Another strength lies in Adam’s advice on relationships. He devotes a section to forgiveness, discussing how aligning with Biblical teachings like Matthew 6:14 (forgive others to be forgiven) can heal broken connections. Through practical examples, like reconciling with a coworker or addressing family disputes, Adam demonstrates how faith transforms interactions.

“The Witness” not only inspires but equips readers with tools for aligning their lives with God’s promises, making it a compelling companion for anyone seeking growth in their spiritual walk.

Potential Critiques Or Limitations

Every inspiring message comes with potential challenges when applying it to real life. While “The Witness” offers practical advice and insights, some readers may find a few points less accessible. Here’s a closer look at possible critiques or limitations:

• Generalization of Faith Journeys: Some readers might feel that the steps outlined, such as consistent prayer or journaling, don’t fully reflect the diversity of faith experiences. Not everyone grows spiritually in the same way. For example, someone new to faith might struggle to connect with practices like memorizing scripture or relying on biblical promises without stronger foundational understanding.
• Application in Specific Contexts: Phillips shares powerful lessons, but real-life scenarios can sometimes vary dramatically. A reader facing systemic challenges, such as financial instability, may find it hard to reconcile these teachings with their particular obstacles.
• Limited Focus on Doubt: Although the book emphasizes overcoming fear and trusting God, it could explore deeper insights into handling prolonged doubt. Some people might long for examples of how to navigate faith when trust feels distant or delayed.
• Youth-Centered Style: As a youth pastor, Phillips’ writing might lean towards addressing younger demographics, which could feel less relatable for an older audience seeking deeper theological exploration.

Acknowledging these areas doesn’t diminish the value of “The Witness.” Instead, it highlights opportunities for readers to adapt its teachings to fit their unique journeys.

Why This Book Matters Today

Adam Phillips’ “The Witness” inspires readers to navigate life’s challenges with faith. Drawing on scripture and practical advice, it bridges the gap between ancient biblical lessons and today’s realities, offering guidance for those wanting a deeper connection with God and actionable steps to grow spiritually.

Relevance To Modern Faith Journeys

People face uncertainty, doubt, and fear now as much as in biblical times. Phillips connects these struggles to stories like Peter stepping out of the boat (Matthew 14:29-31), reminding readers that faith doesn’t mean seeing the full path—just trusting God’s leading. His use of scripture highlights that moving forward often involves courage and small, daily decisions rooted in trusting God’s promises.

Biblical principles take on modern meaning. For instance, Phillips explains how cultivating habits like consistent prayer or studying passages about God’s faithfulness helps face everyday pressure. He shows that scripture isn’t a distant relic but an active guide for tackling personal and societal challenges alike. It’s about bringing faith from the pages of a book into today’s workplace stresses, family dynamics, or community roles.

Encouragement For Personal Growth

Phillips challenges readers to develop spiritual habits. He lays out actionable steps like setting aside five minutes per day to start by thanking God or journaling one verse that stands out from a Bible reading. These small routines make major changes over time, making God’s word part of daily life.

He also calls people to embrace forgiveness and restore relationships. Not by ignoring pain or rushing healing, but by deciding to reflect Christ’s grace even when it feels undeserved. Phillips shares examples from his pastoral work, like teens mending family rifts or peers rebuilding trust after falling out—all through seeing themselves and others through God’s love.

The emphasis on progress, not perfection, stands out. Phillips doesn’t expect readers to shore up their faith overnight but shows that taking one step forward—whether praying more or releasing a grudge—builds spiritual strength. Readers are left encouraged, knowing growth isn’t about getting it all right but about relying on God when they don’t.

Conclusion

Stepping into God’s promises often requires faith, courage, and a willingness to move forward even when the path feels uncertain. It’s not about having all the answers but trusting that God goes before us, guiding each step we take.

As I reflect on the story of the Israelites and the lessons shared in “The Witness,” I’m reminded that small acts of obedience can lead to big transformations. Whether it’s through prayer, scripture, or simply taking that first step, God’s strength meets us where we are.

No matter what transition or challenge you’re facing, know that you’re not alone. God’s promises are steady, His timing is perfect, and His plans for you are good. Trust Him, take the step, and watch how He works in your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the crossing of the Jordan River symbolize for the Israelites?

The crossing of the Jordan River symbolizes stepping into the unknown while trusting in God. It represents more than entering a new territory; it signifies embracing faith, courage, and obedience to align with God’s promises and plans.

What lesson can we learn from the priests stepping into the Jordan River before it parted?

This act highlights the importance of obedience and faith. It shows that stepping into God’s promises often requires taking the first step, trusting Him even when the outcome is uncertain.

How can we trust God during times of change or uncertainty?

Seeking God’s direction through prayer, relying on scripture, and focusing on His promises are key. Practical actions include pausing to pray, memorizing biblical truths, and journaling small victories.

What actionable advice does the article provide for building trust in God?

The article encourages consistent prayer, memorizing scripture, and celebrating small victories. Developing spiritual habits such as starting the day with prayer can help integrate faith into daily life.

How is Adam Phillips’ book “The Witness” relevant to the article?

Phillips’ book deepens understanding of biblical truths and provides actionable steps for applying them in daily life. It encourages readers to take bold steps in faith while trusting God’s timing and guidance.

What are some spiritual habits recommended for navigating transitions with faith?

Daily prayer, scripture memorization, and journaling are recommended habits. These practices help anchor individuals in faith during times of uncertainty and provide peace in anxious moments.

What is the key takeaway from the article’s emphasis on faith?

Faith is about progress, not perfection. Stepping into God’s promises requires small, consistent steps forward while trusting in God’s power rather than human strength.

How does Adam Phillips connect modern challenges with biblical stories?

Phillips uses relatable biblical examples, such as Peter walking on water, to address modern struggles. These connections encourage readers to trust in God’s guidance, even amid fear and uncertainty.

Who might find Phillips’ “The Witness” most helpful?

Youth and younger audiences may resonate most with Phillips’ writing style and relatable approach. However, the book’s teachings can be adapted to fit the unique spiritual journeys of readers of all ages.

What critiques or limitations of Phillips’ approach are mentioned?

The article notes that Phillips’ generalizations may not fit every individual’s spiritual journey. Some may also seek deeper theological insights or strategies for managing prolonged doubt.