Pastor Stephen Dedman

And Joshua said to the people, “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”
‭‭Joshua‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬

The Israelites were standing at the banks of the Jordan River, about to cross over into the Promised Land. Before they were to witness the wonders of God, Joshua delivered a crucial message: “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”

The word “sanctify” means to set apart, to make holy. Joshua was instructing the people to prepare themselves spiritually, to set their hearts and minds on God.

We often find ourselves at crossroads, facing challenges or embarking on new adventures. Just like the Israelites, it’s essential for us to sanctify ourselves before these moments. Here are three key aspects to consider:

1. Surrender: Sanctification begins with surrender. It means letting go of our own plans, fears, and doubts and giving ourselves entirely to God. It’s an acknowledgment that we can’t do it all on our own, but with God’s guidance and strength, we can overcome any obstacle.

2. Holiness: To sanctify ourselves is to strive for holiness. It involves purifying our hearts, repenting of sin, and seeking a closer walk with God. As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us, and His presence becomes evident in our lives.

3. Expectation: Joshua told the Israelites to sanctify themselves because he knew that God was about to perform wonders among them. Similarly, when we sanctify ourselves, we do so with the expectation that God will work wonders in our lives. We trust that He will guide us, protect us, and fulfill His promises.

As you face the “Jordan Rivers” in your life—those moments of transition, challenge, or opportunity—remember Joshua’s words. Sanctify yourself. Set yourself apart for God. Surrender, seek holiness, and maintain an expectant heart. Then, just as the Israelites witnessed God’s wonders, you too will experience His marvelous work in your life.

Pray

Lord, I come before You today, desiring to sanctify myself fully to You. I surrender my plans, my fears, and my doubts into Your hands. Make me holy, Lord, and guide me as I face the challenges and opportunities ahead. I expect Your wonders in my life, knowing that with You, all things are possible. In Jesus’ name, amen.

And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.
‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭28‬

This is a powerful prophecy that speaks of a future outpouring of God’s Spirit upon all people. It’s a promise of God’s presence and guidance in a remarkable way. This verse reminds us that God desires to have a close and personal relationship with each one of us.

The promise that God will “pour out His Spirit on all flesh” signifies inclusivity. It’s not limited to a particular group or age; it’s for everyone. In this promise, we see God’s desire to work in the lives of people from all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life. He wants to use both the wisdom of the old and the energy of the young.

God’s promise of pouring out His Spirit should fill our hearts with hope and expectation. It reminds us that His presence is not distant or reserved for a select few; it’s available to all who seek Him. Through the Holy Spirit, we receive guidance, empowerment, and the ability to fulfill our God-given purpose.

As you reflect on Joel 2:28, seek the Lord in prayer, spend time in His Word, and be receptive to the desires He places in your heart. Trust that His Spirit is at work, both in you and in the world around you.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the promise of Your Spirit. I open my heart to receive more of Your presence and guidance. Use me to fulfill Your purposes and to be an instrument of Your love in this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach,
‭‭Mark‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬

Just as Jesus chose twelve ordinary men, He extends an invitation to each of us today. In the midst of our busy lives, responsibilities, and distractions, He calls us to spend time with Him daily. He desires to be our constant companion, guiding us, comforting us, and revealing the truths of His kingdom.

Being with Jesus allows us to witness firsthand His compassion for the broken, His wisdom in handling challenges, and His unwavering faith in God the Father. As we walk with Him, we learn invaluable lessons, not just for ourselves but also to share with others.

We have a special purpose as disciples of Christ. We are not called to walk alone or merely perform tasks in our own strength. We are called to be with Him, to abide in His love, and to allow His truth to shape every aspect of our lives.

Have you responded to Jesus’ invitation wholeheartedly? It is a privilege to be one of His followers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be one of Your followers. Help me to embrace Your presence so that I will grow close to You. Give me the courage to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name, amen.