Village Schools of the Bible

A Devotional Study of Joshua
by Max Frazier, Jr.

POSSESSING YOUR POSSESSIONS
Joshua 18-19

As we have been discovering in our study through the book of Joshua, the theme has been declared so many times and in so many ways that we are to claim by faith the possessions which are ours because we are children of God.

Israel has now been in the land and should have been ready to settle down in their inheritance from the Lord. As soon as the order comes down from God to begin to occupy, the tribe of Judah, being the largest begins to occupy the territory which was promised to them. Then, the second largest tribe, Ephraim, claims its territory. Even the two and a half tribes return to their inheritance across the Jordan River.

But all is not well. Behold, there are seven tribes which just are not sure yet what they want nor where they belong. There seems to be some apprehension on their part in claiming their possessions. This was very disconcerting to Joshua. So, he assembled their leaders and inquired as to why they were delayed in taking possession of the lands yet to be conquered.

Oh the folly of a half-completed task. How often do we stop a ministry before it is completed. The reasons (excuses) are many: the task is too large; we are too tired; all of our enthusiasm is gone; our vision is clouded. Joshua challenged the leadership of these tribes to complete the task. So, too, we need to be encouraged today to complete those opportunities which God has given to us.

I am reminded of that great promise given to us by the Apostle Paul in the book of Philippians. There he wrote: being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6).

Father, once again You have challenged us to get busy working for You. Renew our confidence in You. Remove the cloud which hides our vision. Restore our enthusiasm for partnering with You in order to reach our families, our neighbors, our world for Christ. You have not called us to indifference but to make a difference. You have led us to the rocking chair but to the battle ground. Encourage our hearts today. In Christ's name I pray. Amen.

Joshua 17 Return to Table of Contents Joshua 20