Much land yet to possess and the responsibility to act on God’s gift
Joshua 13 begins with an aged Joshua and God’s striking words: “there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed.” The major campaigns are finished, but the tribes still have work to do. The inheritance is given by God, yet each tribe must take possession of its allotted portion.
1. Age changes service but does not cancel usefulness
Joshua is old, yet God still gives him important work in allocating the land. (Joshua 13:1).
2. Past success does not mean the work is finished
There remains “very much land to be possessed.” (Joshua 13:1). Spiritual progress should not create complacency.
3. God can give an inheritance that still requires effort
The land is promised, but tribes must occupy it. Grace and responsibility are not opposites.
4. Growth can be gradual by design
Earlier God had said the nations would be driven out little by little. Spiritual maturity is often progressive rather than instant.
5. Unfinished work should be named honestly
The chapter identifies regions still unconquered. Clear awareness of what remains is healthier than pretending completion.
6. Different tribes receive different circumstances
The eastern tribes already possess land while western tribes await allocation. God’s people need not have identical paths.
7. Do not despise another person’s inheritance
Each tribe receives according to God’s allocation. Comparison can make gratitude disappear.
8. The Levites remind Israel that God Himself is the deepest inheritance
Levi receives no ordinary tribal territory because the LORD is their inheritance. (Joshua 13:14,33).
9. Material inheritance is not the final hope
The land pointed forward within God’s covenant purpose. The ultimate hope is resurrection and the Kingdom under Christ.
10. Use remaining strength to prepare others
Joshua’s later work is largely distributive and organisational. Mature service often involves enabling others rather than remaining at the centre.
11. Possession requires personal response
A map of inheritance is not the same as living in it. Knowledge of the Kingdom must become a life directed toward it.
Closing thought
Joshua 13 speaks to anyone tempted to think the important work is already done. God may have given much, but there can still be much to possess. Faith keeps moving.
Practical Readings — Joshua 13