Hearing God Before the Waters Part

Have you ever stood on the bank of a "river" in your life—a problem so big it felt like an impassable barrier? Perhaps it is a difficult decision, a broken relationship, or a transition that feels completely overwhelming. Before the miracle unfolds, there is often a moment of quiet preparation where we are called to pause and listen.

In Joshua 3:9, we find the Israelites in this exact position. The text says, "And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, Come hither, and hear the words of the LORD your God.." They stood at the edge of the Jordan River during the flood season, poised to enter the Promised Land. Before the waters parted, Joshua issued a specific command: they had to draw near and listen. The Hebrew word used for "hear" is shāmaʿ. In the biblical context, this term implies far more than auditory reception; it signifies listening with the intent to obey. It is an active, focused kind of listening that transforms how we live.

This command was not just for the leaders; it was for all the "children of Israel." Joshua wanted them to hear the dābār—the specific words or divine decrees—of their covenant God. Just as Jesus says in John 10:27 that His sheep hear His voice, we are invited to draw near and listen before we take our next step. When we prioritize God's voice over the noise of our fears, we prepare our hearts for the Jordan-crossing moments He has planned for us. Hearing His word provides the faith we need to step into the water.

Application

Today, take ten minutes to "come hither." Find a quiet spot, put away your phone, and read a chapter of Scripture. Do not just look for information; ask God to provide a specific word for your current situation. True hearing always leads to trust, and trust leads to action.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for speaking to us today and for being a God who leads His people. Help us to quiet the noise around us so we can truly hear Your voice and follow wherever You lead. Amen.