Scripture for the day: Joshua 18-20
It’s interesting to see how the Promised land gets divided amongst the 11 tribes (Levi excluded). Two broad categories emerge quite prominently.
There are claimers (Reuben, Gad, Manasseh, and Judah) and then there are non-claimers (the remaining 7 tribes).
The claimers laid hold on the land of their choice; they possessed it with words.
The non-claimers on the other hand had to be pushed to go forth and seek their inheritance (Joshua 18:3). Ultimately, Joshua had to resort to casting of lots to help divide the land amongst the non-claimers.
The whole exercise of dividing the land is much more than just allotting portions among the 11 tribes. It’s an exercise of their faith.
Look at Caleb for instance. His audacity to ask for a hill country filled with giants even at the age of 85, results in him occupying the entire region around Hebron. Caleb belongs to the tribe of Judah and there are approximately 63 verses (rather an entire chapter- chapter 15) dedicated to possession of the land by the tribe of Judah.
Surely enough Judah has great days ahead of itself. The Savior Himself will be born of this tribe.
But what’s wrong with getting lands through lots?
Well, on the surface, nothing. But to think of it, when lands are allotted via lots, the size of the population and its needs may get discarded. It’s after all a matter of fate (and divine intervention).
The 7 non-claimers had the power to shape their destiny, to claim the land they wished to possess.
But they decided to keep quiet, to stay numb and the result?
They’ll just have to put up with what they get- for better or for worse.
Our mouth is a vessel of miracles, and our tongue has the power of life and death.
But, if we keep silent, we stand to lose a lot more than the promises of God.
Because we overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony.
So even though every land is ours to possess, our mouth needs to claim it first.
What are you waiting for? Let your mouth declare His promises and His praise.
In Jesus name,
Amen!
