1. Be consecrated to the Lord (1-5)

God told them to consecrate themselves to him, for he was going to do amazing things through them. The distance from the Ark shows the sense of holiness that God demanded. Before he could work through his people, they needed to consecrate themselves. This involved a purification ceremony to stand before God with a pure heart. Today God consecrates us. But still, we can come before him with humble, repentant hearts, seeking his grace of forgiveness.

2. God seeks faith and obedience (6-17)

God wanted the Levites to carry the Ark and go ahead of the people, stepping into the raging waters. This took faith. The river was at flood stage. While they stood in the river, the waters stopped, allowing the Israelites to pass. God can do amazing things through consecrated people.