In what ways should we trust God's timing, as seen in Joshua 17:5? Setting the Scene Joshua 17 recounts the land allotments west of the Jordan. Years earlier, the daughters of Zelophehad had appealed to Moses for an inheritance because their father had no sons (Numbers 27:1–7). Moses, under God’s direction, promised them land. Decades passed, battles were fought, and at last, “Thus ten shares fell to Manasseh, in addition to the land of Gilead and Bashan beyond the Jordan” (Joshua 17:5). What looked like a simple administrative detail is actually a striking reminder that God never forgets a single promise—no matter how much time elapses. What Joshua 17:5 Shows About God’s Timing • Promise safeguarded: God’s word to Zelophehad’s daughters survived forty years of wilderness wandering and seven years of conquest. • Perfect sequencing: The shares fell only after the land was subdued (Joshua 18:1). God’s timing protected the inheritance from warfare and opposition. • Unexpected abundance: Manasseh received “ten shares,” exceeding the expected allotment. God’s timing often brings more than we originally imagined. • Public vindication: The distribution happened “before Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders” (v. 4). When God fulfills a promise, He does so openly, for His glory and our encouragement. Lessons for Our Lives Today • Waiting is not wasted time; it is God’s classroom for faith. • Delays do not equal denials. If God spoke, He will act (Numbers 23:19). • God arranges circumstances so that the fulfillment blesses more people than just the original recipients. • His timing weaves justice into the fabric of daily life, even in areas culture may overlook (e.g., provision for women without male heirs). Scriptures that Reinforce the Principle • “For the vision awaits an appointed time… Though it lingers, wait for it; it will surely come and will not delay.” (Habakkuk 2:3) • “Wait for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait for the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14) • “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you…” (2 Peter 3:9) • “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son…” (Galatians 4:4) Practical Ways to Wait Well • Keep the promise in view: Write down Scriptures God has quickened to you and revisit them. • Obey what you already know: Zelophehad’s daughters followed existing instructions until more light came. • Stay engaged in community: Their inheritance was secured in the presence of leaders; isolation erodes patience. • Celebrate interim victories: Each conquered city in Canaan was a step toward the final allotment. • Speak faith, not frustration: Align words with God’s promise, just as Joshua confirmed the Lord’s instruction (Joshua 17:4). Encouragement for the Journey Joshua 17:5 is a signpost that God’s calendar is flawless. When circumstances seem stalled, remember the daughters of Zelophehad. Decades could not cancel God’s word; neither can the delays you face. Stand firm, keep trusting, and watch Him turn promises into portions—right on time. |
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