READ JOSHUA 17
GO DEEPER
In the final verses of this chapter, Joshua listens to the grievances of the descendants of Joseph regarding the insufficient allocation of land for their people. The tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim, being large , had settled in areas where Canaanites still resided. Despite God's promise of this land to them, instead of expelling the Canaanites as instructed, they opted to allow them to remain and subjected them to forced labor. So, when they complain to Joshua, he tells them to do what God told them to do and claim their land.
By considering the perspective of Manasseh and Ephraim, it becomes evident that they perceived God as withholding something from them. God had already given it to them; they just had to act to get it. Their desire for a quick fix contrasted with God's call for faithfulness. It is common for us to seek shortcuts in our lives, potentially causing us to overlook opportunities to demonstrate faithfulness. As believers, we should not anticipate a straightforward path or a passive distribution of blessings. Instead, we are summoned to emulate Jesus' obedience, even to the extent of sacrificing himself on a cross.
God will require us to tackle challenging tasks. He will expect us to remain loyal and obedient. Throughout it all, God will be there beside us. The wonderful thing about our God is that He will set a lofty purpose for you and then assist you throughout the journey to achieve it. Manasseh and Ephraim may have felt overwhelmed by the daunting task ahead of them, but the very fact that God instructed them to conquer this land indicates that He would support them, making it not only achievable but already accomplished.
QUESTIONS
1. In what areas of your faith do you tend to look for quick fixes?
2. What false beliefs are hindering your obedience?
3. How can you overcome uncertainty and rely on the Lord's strength?