Joshua 16
-The lot for the sons of Joseph, which went from Jericho
through the wilderness and into the hill country of Bethel, is described here
in this brief chapter. Remember, it was Joseph that had two allotted inheritances
by his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim by the blessing of Israel (Genesis 48:5).
Half of the tribe of Manasseh settled with land portioned by Moses at their
request east of the Jordan. Ephraim and the western Manasseh tribes’ allotment
is the primary focus of this chapter. Their families’ borders are detailed to
each side of the compass. The only negative appears in the last verse with the
commentary that the Canaanites, who lived in Gezer, could not be completely
driven out. They became forced laborers in the nation of Israel (Joshua
16:1-10).
-*Application* We continue to see the short little phrase “they
did not drive out” in the text. This became a not so little problem for Israel
as the years went by. Even to this day they have had to share their allotted and
promised land with people trying to subvert and demoralize their faith. This
same thing happens in our lives if we allow even a “little” bit of sin to stay
in not dealt with. Eradicate the evil within by the blood of Christ totally.
Don’t hang on to nasty habits and plaguing shortcomings. Surrender and confess
all to the Lord and let Him deal with the total destruction of your sin nature.
Let Him totally sanctify you and quit making excuses. Though God loves us and
let’s us stay within His spiritual holy land, things are never right with even
a fragment of tainting within our spirit. Become holy as He is holy by His
given grace and righteousness through the cross of Jesus (Leviticus 19:2).
Verse to Memorize:
Joshua 16:4
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