What role does faith play in the daughters' request in Joshua 17:4? Setting the Scene Joshua 17:3-4 introduces “Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah,” daughters of Zelophehad. Standing before “Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders,” they declare, “ ‘The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brothers.’ … So Joshua gave them an inheritance … in accordance with the LORD’s command”. Faith Rooted in God’s Promise • Their words echo Numbers 27:7—“The daughters of Zelophehad speak correctly.” • They treat God’s prior statement as settled fact, even though years have passed and their father is gone. • Faith, here, is trust that God’s Word does not expire; what He promised through Moses still binds Joshua. Boldness Anchored in Covenant Confidence • Approaching national leaders was unusual for women in their culture. • Their courage rose from confidence in God’s covenant character, not social leverage. • Hebrews 4:16 calls believers to “approach the throne of grace with confidence” (cf. their approach to Israel’s earthly throne). Submission to God-Ordained Authority • They do not seize land; they present a request within the structure God set—priest, leader, elders. • Faith expresses itself in orderly appeal, trusting God to move hearts (Proverbs 21:1). Faith that Inspires Community Obedience • Joshua, Eleazar, and the elders respond “in accordance with the LORD’s command.” • Their faith becomes catalytic; leaders obey because the daughters believed. • James 2:22—faith “was working with his works.” Their request produces action that fulfills divine justice. Lessons for Believers Today • Take God at His Word even when circumstances shift. Promises outlive situations (2 Corinthians 1:20). • Faith is not passive; it moves respectfully toward the fulfillment of Scripture. • Trust God enough to operate within His order, confident He will vindicate His Word. |
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