What does Joshua 17:4 teach about God's provision for all His people? “They approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders and said, ‘The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brothers.’ So Joshua gave them an inheritance among their father’s brothers, according to the LORD’s command.” Setting the Scene • The speakers are the five daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah (cf. Numbers 27:1–7). • Israel is dividing Canaan by tribe; property normally passes through sons. • These sisters remind Joshua of God’s explicit promise, standing on the word revealed to Moses. The Bold Request: Faith in Action • They do not shrink back or accept a second-class status. • They appeal directly to God’s command, not to sentiment or human custom. • Their approach models Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence…” • By citing God’s word, they show trust in His unchanging character (Malachi 3:6). God’s Unbiased Provision • The Lord’s inheritance reaches every believer, regardless of gender, status, or circumstance. • Numbers 27:7 already settled the matter: “The daughters of Zelophehad speak rightly; you must certainly give them property…” • Joshua obeys “according to the LORD’s command,” underlining that divine provision is secure when anchored in His promises, not human tradition. • This moment foreshadows Galatians 3:28—“there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Key Takeaways on Divine Provision • God’s promises are precise and personal; He remembers individuals by name. • His provision is equitable—no believer is overlooked (Psalm 84:11). • Obedience to revealed Scripture unlocks blessings; Joshua honors the command without delay (James 1:25). • Courageous faith acts on the Word; the daughters receive because they ask in line with God’s will (1 John 5:14–15). Living It Out Today • Know your inheritance in Christ (Ephesians 1:3–14). • Stand on Scripture when needs arise; God delights to honor His own Word (Isaiah 55:10–11). • Value every member in the body of Christ; divine provision operates without favoritism (Acts 10:34–35). • Respond promptly to God’s commands, just as Joshua did—faithfulness blesses others and testifies to God’s integrity. Supporting Scriptures • Numbers 27:1-7 – Original promise to Zelophehad’s daughters • Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” • Matthew 6:31-33 – Seek first His kingdom; provision follows • Philippians 4:19 – “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” |
    |