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Joshua 4:20 (BSB)
And there at Gilgal Joshua set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“And there at Gilgal Joshua set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan.” — Joshua 4:20
Imagine standing by the riverbank, the waters of the Jordan just receded, and twelve massive stones are carefully pulled from the riverbed. Joshua places these stones at Gilgal, creating a powerful monument. This isn’t just a pile of rocks; it’s a tangible reminder of an incredible moment—God’s intervention. It’s like creating a scrapbook page in real life, a way to hold onto a monumental event that changed everything. It’s Joshua saying, 'Look at this! Remember what happened here!' This moment is charged with excitement and reverence, a declaration that they will never forget where they came from and what they experienced together.
The book of Joshua is attributed to Joshua himself, a leader who witnessed incredible acts of faith and miracles. He writes not just as a commander but as someone who deeply cares about his people’s connection to their history and faith. Including these stones is Joshua’s way of saying, 'Let’s not forget our journey.' His perspective as a past servant of Moses and now a leader gives him a unique voice—he understands the importance of remembering where they came from and how they got here. This detail reflects his desire to inspire the next generation to hold onto their faith and the stories that shape them.
This moment happens around 1400 BC, a time when the Israelites are finally leaving their years of wandering behind. The world was different then—tribes and nations were forming, and there was a constant struggle for land and identity. The Israelites had been waiting for this moment for decades, and it’s a significant shift. They’re moving from a nomadic lifestyle to settling in a land they believe was promised to them. This historical backdrop makes the act of setting up stones even more poignant; it’s not just about the rocks but what they represent: hope, faith, and a new start.
This specific verse matters because it serves as a powerful reminder for you today. Just like the Israelites, you have moments in your life that shape who you are—moments where you felt a shift or change. Setting up stones can be a metaphor for marking your own milestones. It encourages you to remember your own journey and the significant events that have impacted you. It brings to light the importance of reflection and remembrance in your life, prompting you to create your own 'stones'—ways to cherish and celebrate your growth and experiences, both good and bad.
This week, think about a significant moment in your life that deserves to be remembered. It could be a time you overcame a challenge, a new beginning, or a moment of joy. Find a way to symbolize that memory—maybe write it down in a journal, create a small art piece, or even share the story with a friend or family member. Just like Joshua set up the stones, you can create your own reminders that inspire you and others to reflect on what you’ve learned and how far you’ve come.
In the larger story of this chapter, the Israelites have just crossed the Jordan River, an act of faith and divine power. This moment is pivotal; it’s about transitioning from wandering in the wilderness to entering the Promised Land. After crossing, Joshua commands the people to set up the stones as a symbol of remembrance. This act isn’t just for the present—it’s a legacy for future generations. It’s like saying, 'Whenever your kids ask about these stones, tell them the stories of how we crossed the river and trusted God.' By placing the stones here, Joshua is anchoring their history in this new land, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the people.
What significant moments in your life could you 'mark' in a way that helps you remember and share your journey with others?
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