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Living Boldly in God’s Promises

Joshua 16-18

Joshua 16 details the land inheritance of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. While they received their portion, the chapter also notes that they did not completely drive out the Canaanites. Instead, they subjected them to forced labor. This incomplete obedience reveals a recurring issue in Israel’s history—failing to fully trust in God’s commands. Partial obedience can lead to future struggles, just as allowing sin to linger in our lives can weaken our spiritual walk. God desires full faithfulness, calling us to completely surrender to His will.

In Joshua 17, the tribe of Manasseh struggled with fully claiming their land, expressing fear over the strength of the Canaanites. Instead of stepping out in faith, they hesitated and asked Joshua for more land. Joshua challenged them to take what God had already given and trust Him for victory. This chapter reminds us that we can either walk in bold faith or be paralyzed by fear. God has already equipped us for victory, but we must step forward in obedience, trusting that He will provide strength to overcome obstacles.

In Joshua 18,  seven tribes had still not claimed their inheritance. Joshua rebuked them for their hesitation, instructing them to survey the land and take possession of what God had already promised. Their delay reveals a lack of urgency and faith. This passage challenges us to examine whether we are holding back from fully stepping into God’s plan. Delayed obedience can hinder God’s blessings. Just as Israel needed to take action, we must actively pursue God’s calling and trust Him to lead us forward.

These chapters highlight the importance of faith-filled obedience. Joshua 16 warns against incomplete obedience. Joshua 17 contrasts fearful hesitation with bold faith. Joshua 18 calls out delayed obedience. Altogether, they remind us that God has already given His promises, but we must step forward to claim them. In our spiritual journey, we must fully trust and act on God's Word, refusing to let fear or complacency keep us from experiencing His best.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does the failure to fully drive out the Canaanites in Joshua 16 warn us about allowing sin to remain in our lives?
  • What does Joshua’s response to the fearful tribe of Manasseh teach us about trusting God for victory?
  • In what ways do we sometimes delay in obeying God, like the tribes in Joshua 18?
  • How do these passages point to the greater spiritual inheritance we have in Christ?
  • What areas of your life is God calling you to step forward in bold faith instead of hesitation?