READ JOSHUA 16
GO DEEPER
This chapter, similar to the previous two, appears to be another account of the division of land. However, it offers more than just that. The closing statement (my paraphrase) highlights an important takeaway from this chapter. 'They did not displace the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day, the Canaanites dwell among the people of Ephraim but are subjected to compulsory labor.' Despite the expectation set by God for Ephraim's descendants to expel the Canaanites from Gezer, they chose instead to coexist with them in return for their labor. They reached a compromise and allowed them to reside alongside them.
Several other tribes also made a similar mistake. Why did they choose not to follow God's orders? There are two probable explanations. Firstly, it was the simpler option. It was more convenient to compromise rather than to oust people from their land, to avoid conflict, and to ignore the situation. However, this was not what God had instructed them to do. They chose the route with the least amount of opposition.
Another probable explanation is that it provided them with additional income. The Israelites became covetous, opting to hire their fellow Israelites for labor or compelling the Canaanites to perform the same tasks in return for allowing them to remain in the land. Consider the numerous shortcuts we take, which ultimately lead to greed. At times, we may believe we are practicing financial astuteness, but in reality, we are simply driven by a love for money.
At first glance, permitting the Canaanites to remain in Gezer may not appear significant. However, it is these minor compromises scattered throughout that ultimately resulted in Israel's descent into turmoil as depicted in the book of Judges. Idolatry and moral decay spread unchecked, resulting in a blatant disregard for God's teachings. TThis highlights the importance of being steadfast in following God's commands, as adherence leads to life, while yielding to slight compromises inevitably leads to destruction. Let us be watchful today in identifying and resisting the areas in our lives where we are tempted to make concessions.
QUESTIONS
1.
What are some other instances in the book of Joshua where the Israelites were unable to remove inhabitants from their territory?
2. Have you ever observed yourself making minor compromises for the sake of convenience or material gain?
3. The Bible contains numerous accounts of minor concessions resulting in serious repercussions. When have you experienced this in your life? How can you take proactive steps today to avoid compromising in the future?