Read Joshua 15
Joshua
15 describes Judah’s inheritance. Judah’s lot is described in much more detail
than any of the other tribes’ allocations. This reflects the prominent position
the tribe of Judah has throughout Scripture (see Gen 49:8-12). Further, Judah
receives land that is centrally located. This will guarantee Judah a position
of influence over the other tribes of Israel. Judah did not receive such a
wonderful land allocation due to favouritism, greed or any other sinful motive.
God knew that Joshua was a wise, faithful leader. However, He also knew Joshua
was a human with a sin nature. Joshua, like any human in a position of great
power, could have faced external temptation to abuse his power. One aspect of God’s
grace is providing us whatever we need to serve Him and follow His will. God
gave Joshua grace by requiring the casting of lots to allocate the land. This would
guarantee that it was God who made the decision, not Joshua. Not only would
this produce the best outcome for Israel, it would protect Joshua from any
temptation to abuse his position of influence.
Prayer
and Journaling
1. In the middle of describing Israel’s land,
the writer pauses and speaks about Caleb. Such interjections remind us how
important Caleb’s example is. Reflect on Caleb’s story (see Joshua 14 and/or
Numbers 13-14 if you need a refresher). Why is it so important? Why do you
think Caleb is so highly esteemed in Scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you
how you can become more like Caleb.
2. God is a God of order and details. As
people with differing interests and personalities, some of us naturally love
this about God and others have difficulty understanding why this is good. That
is okay – God made us all unique! However, we cannot use our unique design to
ignore parts of Scripture. Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. The next few chapters in
Joshua contain large amounts of detail. Pray that God would help you grow in
appreciation of these portions of Scripture. Pray that He would speak to you
through this section in Joshua.
3. Every person has influence. If we are not
careful, it is easy to use this influence for selfish motives. Search your
heart – do you do this? Confess it to God and ask Him for one practical step to
grow in selflessness with your influence over others.
