Think of a time when you completed a HUGE task that may have taken you days, months, or even years to accomplish. Got something in mind? Remember the feeling of exhilaration when you had completed something marvelous? Do you think that Joshua was feeling a little bit of this as the distribution of land was now complete?
Perhaps Joshua was wondering, “what’s next for me?” Up to now, he had had a clear purpose. First of all, he was called to bring the Israelites into the Promised Land. Then he was to lead the charge in “cleaning house” and eliminating the competition for the land, those who were living there. Next, he was to make sure all the tribes were accounted for and received the land blessed by God’s hand. Now, Joshua’s “next steps” were a bit unclear.
Sometimes we experience a let-down after the completion of a big project. I can remember being involved in a multi-million dollar building project at one of the churches David served. So much time and effort went into the planning and overseeing. There seemed to be a new challenge every week or new expectation to be realized. It was invigorating. When the project was completed, there was a time of transition into enjoying the finished product while at the same time we missed the activities we had been “living” for so many days.
When you think about Joshua’s project, remember Joshua was only the facilitator bringing it to a conclusion. God had been orchestrating and overseeing this ever since his promise to Abraham. Jacob’s declarations in Genesis 49 may also have played a bit of a role, as well. He called out Levi and Simeon, so it’s not surprising that their distributions were a bit different than the other clans.
I was glad to see that Joshua also was gifted some land for his efforts. He and Caleb were both recognized and rewarded for the role they played in the taking of the Promised Land. This is a good example of how God gives good gifts to his children when they least expect it. Joshua and Caleb didn’t bring a good report because of what they thought they would gain.
We’ve got a bit more in the Book of Joshua, so we should see a bit more of what happens in Joshua’s life. I don’t know about you, but I think Joshua has been a key individual in the history of the Israelite people. We may not all have assignments as intense as Joshua, but we all have an assignment. What is yours? Ask God if you’re not sure.
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for this reminder today. You have given me the assignment of sharing your message with the world. Give me the tools and knowledge I need to be effective. May I always rely on your wisdom and the knowledge gained from the counsel of other Christians. Still my heart so I can hear and be obedient. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
