READ JOSHUA 21
GO DEEPER
The story revisits the division of land in a new section. The Levites approach Joshua, Eleazar, and the leaders of Israel to request the land allotted to them by God through Moses. The subsequent forty verses detail the distribution of the land among different groups. The concluding verse in this section provides a significant reminder that encapsulates the essence of the book of Joshua. We read in Joshua 21:45, "There failed not ought of any good thing which the LORD had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass."
The Israelites experienced God's faithfulness as He fulfilled His promises to them. Despite Israel's flaws, God continued to care for and support His people.
The Levites were not allocated a specific territory like the other tribes; instead, they were distributed among 48 different towns and pasturelands. Serving as teachers and guides of the Law, their duty was to offer spiritual guidance to the community. Rather than isolating themselves, they were spread throughout the land to redirect people toward God, interpret the Law, and contribute to society.
Just as the Levites were designated to be dispersed as priests, we too are a part of a royal priesthood according to 1 Peter 2:9. As believers in Jesus, it is our duty to lead others to Him. We must live among the general population, sharing the Word and the message of salvation with those who are distant from God. To put it another way, we are called to be positive influences and examples in society, as mentioned in Matthew 5:13-16. The Levites could have formed a separate nation, but God had other plans. As Christians, we may want to isolate ourselves, but we can share the Gospel with a needy world.
QUESTIONS
1. What is the significance of understanding that every promise made by God to Israel has been fulfilled?
2. Why was it essential for the Levites to reside near the rest of Israel?
3. How are you using your influence to positively impact your community for the Kingdom? In your interactions with others, how are you demonstrating the principles of being a source of both salt and light?