Joshua 17 - Praying God's Word

 

Please read Joshua 17.

www.blueletterbible.org/nasb/jos/17/1/s_204001

Meditate on verses 14-15a.

 

Then the sons of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying,

"Why have you given me only one lot and one portion

for an inheritance, since I am a numerous people

whom the LORD has thus far blessed?"

 Joshua said to them, "If you are a numerous people, go

up to the forest and clear a place for yourself.”

 

Ephraim and Manasseh were given an inheritance of land, but they did not drive out the Canaanites as God commanded (Joshua 16:10; 17:12).  They came whining and complaining to Joshua that they needed more land.  Joshua wisely told them to go and take what God had already given them.  They had plenty of land; they needed to obey God and wipe out the inhabitants and possess the land.  But the people were like baby birds, with mouths wide open, chirping “Give me; give me, God.  Give me more, God!”

 

Can you relate to these descendants of Joseph wanting God to give easy blessings, yet ignoring His call for faithful obedience?  Search your heart for Ephraim and Manasseh tendencies, replacing them with a heart like Caleb’s (Joshua 14:11-12).

 

As a faithful, prayerful watchman (Isaiah 62:6-7), ask God to help you and those you love obey Joshua 17:18.

 

“LORD, You have given __________ and me _____________.*

 Now it is a forest, but help us clear it, and to its farthest borders

let it be ours.  Help us drive out everything hindering

 us, even though it appears they have chariots of

iron and though they are strong.

Because of Your strength, Jesus~”

 

 

 

                  *The blank could be filled with: your marriage, your family, your job, your church, etc.

 

 

The WATCHMAN on the WALL, 4 – Dr. Ron and Marsha Harvell