The First Step

Before God parted the Jordan so the Israelites could walk across on dry land, the priests had to step into the water. That step was an act of faith. I wonder if it was difficult for them to take that first step. It is often only the first step that is difficult.

Stepping into the waters is choosing to do what we would do if the waters were already parted. The first step may seem to be done in our own strength. We choose to be loving and gracious trusting that we are doing what is pleasing to Jesus. A friend called with some good news to her, but immediately a sense of disappointment arose within me because her good news meant a change of plans for me. I was so tempted to resent this intrusion into my plans, but I deliberately chose to receive the news gladly. I was surprised at the joy that came. It suddenly seemed right. I saw the situation from a different perspective and found I could indeed rejoice with her.

We say, "Oh, Lord, please let me see the dry land first. Then I'll walk across." But He says, "Step your foot into the waters. Show me your faith by proceeding in the direction You know I want you to go." How faithful God is to us. But often before we see His deliverance from wrong attitudes, He wants to see our faith shown through our obedience.