ARISE Bible Breakdown
Joshua 3 – “Follow the Ark: When God Goes Before You”
Theme: Faith, Obedience, and the Presence of God
Key Scripture Focus: Joshua 3 (CSB)
“When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God carried by the Levitical priests, you are to break camp and follow it. But keep a distance… for you haven’t traveled this way before.”
—Joshua 3:3-4
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to today's ARISE Bible Breakdown. In Joshua 3, we witness a turning point for the Israelites—stepping into their promise after 40 years of wandering. But before they could cross the Jordan, they had to learn how to follow the presence of God.
This chapter reminds us that when God leads, it may be unfamiliar, but it will always be fruitful. Sometimes, you don’t need a map—you just need to follow His presence.
Preparation to Cross
Joshua 3:1-5
Joshua rose early: Leaders rise early. They prepare before the people move.
Stayed at the Jordan 3 days: Waiting seasons often test our patience. God allows us to see the impossibility before showing us the miracle.
Ark leads the way: The Ark of the Covenant symbolized the presence of God. Their instruction was to follow it but not touch it—this was sacred movement.
“You have not traveled this way before” – God often takes us down new paths to test our trust.
ARISE Reflection:
When God starts leading you into new territory, you must be willing to let go of control, and consecrate yourself (set yourself apart) to see Him work.
Journal Prompt:
What is God asking you to release so you can follow Him fully into unfamiliar territory?
God's Presence & Leadership
Joshua 3:6–10
Priests carry the Ark: This was a spiritual assignment, not a power move. Those carrying the presence had to walk by faith before others could.
“Today I will begin to exalt you” (v.7): God affirms Joshua’s leadership publicly—after his obedience privately.
Joshua says, “Come closer and listen” (v.9): Before God moves, His people must listen up and lean in.
God gives proof of His presence: He says, “I’m going to drive out every enemy tribe.”
ARISE Reflection:
Promotion doesn’t come before obedience—it follows it. And when God sends you, He always backs you up with His power.
Journal Prompt:
What assignment are you carrying that others will benefit from—if you stay obedient?
The Miracle at the Jordan
Joshua 3:11–17
The moment the priests’ feet touch the water: the Jordan backs up all the way to a town called Adam—symbolizing a divine reset.
They crossed on dry ground: This wasn’t muddy or halfway—it was full, complete, miraculous provision.
The Ark stood in the middle of the river: God doesn’t just start with you; He stays with you in the middle until the assignment is done.
ARISE Reflection:
Your obedience can shift the entire atmosphere—not just for you but for everyone connected to you. Sometimes the waters won’t move until your feet do.
Journal Prompt:
What "Jordan River" do you need to step into, believing God will make a way?
CONCLUSION:
Joshua 3 teaches us that God goes before those who trust Him. The key isn’t to have it all figured out—it’s to stay close to His presence, obey the instructions, and watch the waters part.