In a world that constantly urges us to blend in, to normalize every behavior and desire, there's a powerful call echoing through the ages - a call to be set apart. This isn't about being different for the sake of being unique or standing out. It's about recognizing our true identity as children of God and living in a way that reflects His holiness.

The concept of consecration - taking something common and making it holy - lies at the heart of this transformative journey. We're reminded that the opposite of holy isn't unholy; it's common. As believers, we're called to a life that's anything but common. We've been bought with a price, raised to new life, and our sins have been crucified with Christ. This reality should fundamentally alter how we see ourselves and how we live.

Consider the story of Joshua and the Israelites as they prepared to cross the Jordan River. After years of wandering in the wilderness, they stood on the precipice of the Promised Land. But before they could enter, Joshua gave a crucial command: "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you" (Joshua 3:5).

This wasn't just about external cleansing. It was a call to prepare their hearts, to rid themselves of anything that didn't align with God's will, and to ready themselves for the miraculous. The same call echoes to us today. God is still in the business of doing amazing things, but He's looking for a people who are consecrated and ready.

The Jordan crossing wasn't just a geographical move; it was deeply symbolic. It represented leaving behind the old life of slavery and wandering, and stepping into the promises of God. As the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the river, the waters parted, allowing the entire nation to cross on dry ground. This miraculous event was meant to be remembered, which is why Joshua commanded that twelve stones be taken from the riverbed and set up as a memorial.

These stones serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance in our spiritual lives. We're called to remember where God has brought us from, not with nostalgia or longing, but with gratitude and awe at His delivering power. This kind of remembrance produces momentum, propelling us forward in our faith journey.

However, the call to consecration and holy living often clashes with the world's messages. We're bombarded with ideas that try to normalize sin and rebellion against God. The enemy whispers that we were "born this way" and should accept our sinful nature. But the gospel proclaims a radically different message: "Be born again!" (John 3:3). In Christ, we're new creations. Our old self, with its passions and desires, has been crucified with Christ.

This transformation isn't just about personal holiness; it has a profound impact on our witness to the world. When the Israelites crossed the Jordan in obedience to God, the Bible tells us that the hearts of their enemies "melted in fear" (Joshua 5:1). There's a spiritual reality at play here: when God's people walk in holiness and obedience, it shakes the very foundations of darkness.

Living a consecrated life doesn't mean we'll be perfect. It means we're committed to the process of sanctification - being transformed into the image of Christ. It means we're willing to confront the idols in our lives, whether they're obvious sins or more subtle distractions that take God's rightful place in our hearts.

This process of consecration and transformation is deeply personal. It requires us to take an honest look at our lives and ask: What needs to change? What am I holding onto that's keeping me from fully following Christ? Am I harboring unforgiveness, bitterness, or anger? Am I enslaved to addictions or harmful patterns of behavior?

The good news is that we don't have to clean ourselves up before coming to God. In fact, we can't. True consecration begins with crying out to Jesus, acknowledging our need for His cleansing power. He's already paid the price for our freedom; we simply need to step into it.

As we consecrate ourselves, we're promised that God will do amazing things. Just as He parted the Jordan for the Israelites, He'll make a way where there seems to be no way in our lives. He'll break down walls of resistance, just as He brought down the walls of Jericho. He'll give us victory over enemies that once seemed insurmountable.

But here's the key: we must stay in step with God. The Israelites had to follow the Ark of the Covenant, keeping a reverent distance. Similarly, we're called to follow God's leading closely, neither running ahead in our own strength nor lagging behind in disobedience or fear.

Living a consecrated life isn't about rigid rule-following or joyless sacrifice. It's about experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for us. It's about walking in the freedom that Christ purchased for us on the cross. It's about being part of something bigger than ourselves - God's plan to redeem and restore all of creation.

As we embrace this call to consecration, we'll find ourselves becoming bolder in our faith. We'll be less swayed by the opinions of others and more anchored in the truth of God's Word. We'll be ready to stand firm when challenges come, knowing that the same God who parted the Jordan and brought down Jericho is with us.

Today, the altar is open. The invitation to consecrate ourselves stands. Will we respond? Will we lay down everything that hinders us and step fully into the life God has for us? The promise remains: as we consecrate ourselves, God will do amazing things. Let's prepare our hearts, for tomorrow - and every day after - holds the potential for miracles.

If this sermon spoke to you and you’re ready to explore it further, this study guide is for you! Inside, you’ll find key Scriptures, reflection questions, and practical applications to help you grow in your faith. Open it up, dig in, and let God’s Word transform your life!