Scripture – “The people of Joseph said to Joshua, “Why have you given us only one allotment and one portion for an inheritance? We are a numerous people, and the Lord has blessed us abundantly.” “If you are so numerous,” Joshua answered, “and if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go up into the forest and clear land for yourselves there in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaites.” The people of Joseph replied, “The hill country is not enough for us, and all the Canaanites who live in the plain have chariots fitted with iron, both those in Beth Shan and its settlements and those in the Valley of Jezreel.” But Joshua said to the tribes of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—“You are numerous and very powerful. You will have not only one allotment but the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out.””
Joshua 17:14-18 NIV
Observation – The tribe of Joseph wanted more land because God had blessed them so much that they had lots of family members so they asked Joshua for a bigger allotment. Joshua agreed with them and said you are numerous and powerful and because God has blessed you abundantly you should be able to clear the forest and dislodge the Canaanites but they replied that the Canaanites who lived there had chariots fitted with iron.
Application – Often times God has given us all we need and to fulfill his purpose for us requires action on our part. God has elected to partner with people, not wave a wand and give us whatever we ask for. This partnership helps build trust in God and confidence that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
Prayer – Jesus, thank you for everything you do for us. I pray that we would wait on you when we need to wait and take action when it is time to take action. I pray for wisdom to know the difference. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 