Bible Pathways - March 19, 2006

March 19, 2006

Read Joshua 17

In Today's Reading:

Distribution of land to all the tribes; Manasseh fails to drive out Canaanites; Tabernacle set up at Shiloh; Joshua's inheritance

The conquest of Canaan was completed and the land was divided, not by majority vote, but by the Lord. When the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle of the congregation. . . . the land was subdued before them. . . . Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel (Joshua 18:1,10).

Although they had received some of the best territory in the promised land, the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim complained that they should have more territory given to them because of their great numbers and what they perceived as their prominent position among the tribes (17:14-18). The Ephraimites were proud of their history as descendants of Joseph and that Joshua, the victorious commander who had led in the conquest of Canaan, was also from their tribe.

Sadly, these two tribes chose the easy way of compromise with the Canaanites. The blessings of God often depend upon faith and faith without works is dead (James 2:20). It is sometimes wise to refuse to help those who will not help themselves.

When we have our priorities centered upon the Lord, we need not fear losing our share of anything. In fact, we gladly accept less to maintain peace with others. True children of God do not expect others to serve or praise them.

In a striking contrast to the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim, Joshua chose to be the last to lay claim to any territory (Joshua 19:49). As captain, we could expect him to be first and to take the best for himself. Instead, he chose last. His choice was a very small area near Shiloh where the Tabernacle was erected and where he could best worship and serve the Lord. It was there, in the nearness of the Lord's presence, that Joshua built his small city. Joshua illustrates the importance of being fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. . . . Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. . . . Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up (Romans 12:11; James 4:7,10).

Word Studies:

17:13 tribute = forced labor; 18:1 Shiloh = the location of the Tabernacle in the tribe of Ephraim; 18:6 describe = map out, survey, diagram.

Christ Revealed:

Through Shiloh. The children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle (Joshua 18:1). Shiloh was the dwelling place of God's presence which was prophetic of Jesus. The Word (Jesus) . . . dwelt (tabernacled) among us (John 1:14).

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Bob and Dorothy Franklin · The Arabic International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Mrs. Sue Moore · Country: Monaco (32,000) in southeastern France · Major languages: French and English · No open evangelism permitted · 90% Roman Catholic; 7% Protestant; 1% Eastern Orthodox · Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and mercy (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Optional Reading: John 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Joshua 22:5