What kind of emotions do you think these seven tribes were feeling still being “homeless?” Anxious? Bored? Curious? Impatient? Certainly, life was way different for the Israelites than for us today. We can only apply our own “filters” on their situation. I always like to put myself in the moment the best I can.
I can just imagine the hush, or collective gasp, that occurred over the masses of people at Shiloh when they were told to go pick their land and God would bless it. Joshua seemed a little surprised that he had to bring up the subject of land division as if he was wondering, “what are they waiting for?” Joshua said to them, “Select three men from each tribe, and I will send them out to explore the land and map it out. They will then return to me with a written report of their proposed divisions of their new homeland.”
The scouts go on their way to do what Joshua had commanded them. When they successfully returned from this mission, “there at Shiloh, Joshua cast sacred lots in the presence of the Lord to determine which tribe should have each section.” I wasn’t sure what this casting sacred lots was all about. In a quick google search, it came back that the closest thing we have in our culture today would be the act of flipping a coin. The key to this was they did it “in the presence of the Lord.”
When we forge ahead and make decisions without asking God first, we often find ourselves hoping God will bless “our” plans. While that would appear to be what’s happening here, we need to look deeper. God was giving the permission to make “their own” plans. God would bless their land choices because he willed it in the first place.
Can you think of a time when you felt God’s leading in your life to do something outside your comfort zone? Did you do it? Looking back you can surely see God’s fingerprints of blessing all over it, can’t you? Take some time today to ask God to direct your path according to his will.
Let’s pray … Lord, I need your help to see the direction you have for me today. There are so many times I think my own agenda is so important that I forget to check in with you. Forgive me, Lord. Help me do a better job of listening for your voice. Thank you for the reminder to be more focused on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
