Teach kids the amazing story of Joshua crossing the Jordan River! Discover fun ways to help them trust God’s power, presence, and perfect timing.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how God miraculously helped the Israelites cross the Jordan River.
- Learn the importance of trusting God’s timing and leadership.
- Recognize that God is always with us, even in uncertain times.
Introduction: Try This!
Set up a “river crossing” obstacle course using blue fabric or paper as water and stepping stones or paper plates as safe spots. Let kids try crossing the “river” without touching the water. Then ask:
“What would you do if you had to cross a real river with no bridge?”
Explain that God made a way for Joshua and the people when things looked impossible.
Memory Verse:
Joshua 3:5 (NIV)
“Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.”
Bible Story Summary (Joshua 3–4)
After wandering in the desert for 40 years, the Israelites were finally ready to enter the Promised Land. But one big obstacle stood in the way, the Jordan River, which was overflowing at the time.
God told Joshua to have the priests carry the Ark of the Covenant into the river. As soon as their feet touched the water, the river stopped flowing! The people crossed on dry ground, just like when Moses led them through the Red Sea.
God told Joshua to have twelve men take stones from the river to build a memorial. This was to remind future generations of the miracle God performed and how He led His people with power and faithfulness.
Lessons from the Jordan River Crossing:
- God makes a way when we trust Him.
- His timing is perfect, even when it seems late.
- We must remember and celebrate what God has done.
- Leaders like Joshua trust and obey God even when the way is unclear.
Creative Ways to Teach This Lesson:
- Fun and engaging worksheets: Use worksheets that promote learning and independent work.
- Twelve Stones Craft: Let each child decorate a “stone” (paper or real) with a word or picture about God’s faithfulness.
- Story Retelling with Props: Use blue cloth, cardboard Ark of the Covenant, and figurines.
- Trust Walk Game: Blindfolded kids follow voice directions, learning to trust—like the Israelites trusted Joshua and God.
- Memory Journal Prompt: “When was a time God helped me when I didn’t see a way?”
Closing Encouragement:
The crossing of the Jordan River shows us that God is powerful, present, and always working on our behalf—even when we face big obstacles. Remind your children or students that when we follow God in faith, He leads us to amazing places!
Looking for More?
Bring the lesson to life with the Joshua Crossing the Jordan River Bible Printable Pack!
This resource includes story visuals, activities, coloring pages, and more in English and Spanish, helping kids engage deeply and joyfully with God’s Word.
