How should we apply the principle of inheritance from Joshua 17:2 today? Setting the Scene “ So allotments were made to the rest of the descendants of Manasseh according to their clans—Abi-ezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida—these were the male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph, according to their clans.” (Joshua 17:2) Key Observation from Joshua 17:2 • Land was distributed clan by clan, family by family. • Every tribe member received a defined, tangible share. • The allotment was rooted in God’s covenant promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). • The inheritance was lasting, meant to pass through generations (Leviticus 25:23). Timeless Principle of Inheritance • God grants His people real, identifiable blessings. • Inheritance is received, not earned (Deuteronomy 6:10-12). • Stewardship flows from inheritance; ownership belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1). • Each believer today is equally an heir of grace (Romans 8:16-17; Galatians 3:29). Applying the Principle in Personal Life • Cherish your spiritual portion: “In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to His plan” (Ephesians 1:11). • Guard the boundaries of faith and obedience just as ancient Israel guarded property lines (Proverbs 22:28). • Pass on truth to the next generation—Scripture, testimony, and godly example (2 Timothy 1:5; 3 14-17). • Live gratefully, rejecting envy of another’s gift set or circumstances (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Applying the Principle in the Family • Write wills and plans that reflect biblical priorities: provision, fairness, and generosity (Proverbs 13:22). • Teach children that the greatest legacy is faith (Psalm 78:5-7). • Keep property and finances in perspective; everything is ultimately God’s (1 Chronicles 29:14). Applying the Principle in Church Community • Recognize every member’s place in the “clan” of Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). • Share resources so no believer is left without a portion (Acts 4:32-35). • Celebrate diverse callings—teaching, service, giving—without elevating one above another (Romans 12:4-8). Applying the Principle in Society • Advocate for just treatment of heirs, including widows and orphans, reflecting God’s concern (James 1:27). • Promote stewardship of land and creation, remembering the earth is a trust from God (Genesis 2:15). • Uphold legal integrity in property matters, mirroring God’s righteous standards (Micah 6:8). Living as Heirs in Christ • “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope… to an inheritance imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you.” (1 Peter 1:3-4) • Like Manasseh’s descendants, receive your allotted grace with gratitude, steward it faithfully, and pass it forward so future generations will know and rejoice in the Lord who gives every good gift. |
    |