Lessons from Joshua 17
When we dive into Joshua 17, it’s more than just a chapter about land division and ancient Israelite history—it’s packed with deep lessons on faith, courage, and God’s justice. As I reflect on this chapter, I realize it has so much to say about how we live out our faith today. The people of Israel were settling into their Promised Land, but getting the land was only the beginning. Claiming and living in their inheritance required effort, persistence, and trust in God. In the same way, we as Christians have been given an inheritance through Christ, but we must actively walk in faith to claim the promises God has for us. Let’s explore the insights from this chapter and see how they apply to our lives.
First, the story of Makir, Manasseh’s firstborn, is a powerful reminder that God honors our faithfulness and courage in using the gifts and opportunities He gives us. Makir’s descendants received Gilead and Bashan, not by sitting back and waiting, but through their bravery in battle. It’s easy to forget that God’s promises often come with responsibilities. He gives us gifts—whether it’s talents, resources, or opportunities—but He expects us to use them. This calls to mind the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30, where the master rewards the servants who invest and multiply what they’ve been given. God doesn’t want us to bury our gifts out of fear or complacency. He wants us to step out in faith, just like the warriors of Makir, trusting that He will equip us for the battles we face. As Paul writes in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” If we’re holding back, afraid to act on what God has given us, this is our reminder to step up and be brave.
Then there’s the incredible story of Zelophehad’s daughters. These women are a testament to the fact that God’s justice goes beyond societal norms. In ancient Israel, inheritance typically passed through the male line, but Zelophehad had no sons, only daughters. Rather than accepting their fate and losing their inheritance, these five women—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah—boldly approached the leaders and claimed their right to their father’s inheritance. What’s amazing is that God had already made provisions for them in Numbers 27, showing that His justice covers every situation, even those that seem outside the norm. This story speaks volumes to us today, especially if we ever feel overlooked or marginalized. God sees us, values us, and makes a way for us when we boldly approach Him. As commentator Matthew Henry puts it, “God’s law has made provision for the greatest equity and fairness, and we see that it is not limited to gender or status.” When we stand up for what is right, with faith in God’s justice, He ensures that our needs are met and our inheritance is secure.
Another key lesson comes from the shared borders of Manasseh and Ephraim. These two tribes, descendants of Joseph, had overlapping territories, which no doubt required them to cooperate and work together. This speaks directly to our need for unity within the body of Christ. Just like Manasseh and Ephraim, we often find ourselves sharing space—whether in ministry, community, or family life—and God calls us to live in harmony. Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” We might not always get along perfectly, and there may be times when cooperation is difficult, but God desires for us to work together for His kingdom. Their shared borders remind us that sometimes God places us in close proximity to others, not for conflict, but to learn to love, support, and sharpen one another as iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). How often do we resist this, though? It’s easy to get frustrated with others, but God uses these moments to teach us patience, humility, and love.
Lastly, the request for more land by the people of Joseph challenges us to take initiative and responsibility for our growth. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh came to Joshua, saying, “We are a numerous people, and the LORD has blessed us abundantly” (Joshua 17:14). They recognized that their population was growing, and they needed more space to thrive. But Joshua didn’t just hand them more land on a silver platter. Instead, he told them to go up into the forest and clear the land themselves. Joshua’s response is a challenge to all of us who are asking for more in our spiritual lives. Maybe you’re asking God for more opportunities, more influence, or deeper faith, but the question is—are you willing to work for it? God often calls us to clear the land before us, to step out in faith and take hold of what He’s given. Commentator David M. Howard Jr. notes, “The inheritance was available, but it had to be claimed through effort and faith.” God doesn’t just drop blessings in our laps. He wants us to be active participants in His plan, using the resources and gifts He’s already given us to clear the way for more.
So, how do we apply all this to our lives? First, we need to ask ourselves: What gifts and opportunities has God placed in my hands, and am I using them faithfully? Like the warriors of Makir, we need to be bold and courageous, stepping out in faith to claim what God has given us. Second, we need to consider whether we are standing up for justice in our lives and in the lives of others, just as the daughters of Zelophehad did. Are there areas where we’ve accepted the status quo, when God is calling us to step up and ask for what’s rightfully ours in Him? Third, we need to embrace unity and cooperation, especially when God places us in close proximity to others. We can either let those relationships bring us down, or we can allow them to sharpen us and make us stronger for His kingdom. Finally, when we ask God for more, we must be prepared to put in the effort. God blesses those who work diligently with what they’ve been given.
I challenge you to take a moment to reflect: Where is God calling you to step out in faith, to clear the land before you, or to stand up for justice in your own life or in the lives of others? Ask God to show you what’s in your hands right now, and then take that first step toward using it for His glory. Remember, your inheritance in Christ is not something you sit back and wait for—it’s something you step out and claim, knowing that God has already equipped you for the journey ahead.
As you move forward, let this truth anchor your heart: “God’s promises are secure, but our faith is the key that unlocks them. The work we do now is preparing us for the greater things He has in store.”
For further reading on how to claim God’s promises and take responsibility for our spiritual growth, visit this article: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/trusting-god-with-what-you-have.
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