What lessons on obedience can we learn from Naphtali's inheritance in Joshua 19:37? Text Under Consideration “Kedesh, Edrei, En-hazor,” (Joshua 19:37) Setting the Scene Naphtali’s territory is cataloged town by town. Verse 37 names three particular towns—Kedesh, Edrei, and En-hazor. Nothing in Scripture is filler; even a list of towns invites reflection. Each name highlights an aspect of God’s expectations and the tribe’s response. From them we glean practical lessons on obedience today. Key Observations • Kedesh – “holy” or “sanctuary.” Later identified as a city of refuge (Joshua 20:7), a place where justice and mercy met. • Edrei – “strong” or “mighty.” A reminder of fortified strength provided by the Lord, not human ingenuity. • En-hazor – “spring of Hazor.” Springs picture ongoing, life-giving supply (Psalm 1:3; John 4:14). Lessons on Obedience • Live set apart like Kedesh – God calls His people to practical holiness: “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do” (1 Peter 1:15). – Obedience begins with a heart separated from sin and devoted to Him. • Run to God’s provided refuge – Cities of refuge functioned only when entered God’s way (Deuteronomy 19:1-3). – Christ is our refuge today (Hebrews 6:18). Obedience means fleeing to Him rather than managing guilt ourselves. • Depend on the Lord’s strength symbolized by Edrei – “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10). – Obedience rejects self-reliance and leans on divine might (Ephesians 6:10). • Draw continually from God’s spring at En-hazor – Springs flow without ceasing; likewise, God supplies grace for every obedient step (2 Corinthians 9:8). – A life of obedience is sustained, not sporadic—refreshed daily by His Word and Spirit (Psalm 119:97). • Count ordinary details as ordained – These towns were assigned, not chosen (Joshua 19:51). Obedience embraces the lot God gives, trusting His wisdom. Putting It Into Practice Holiness, refuge, strength, and continual supply—Naphtali’s three towns illustrate what obedient living looks like. Set yourself apart, run to Christ for mercy, rely on His strength, and drink daily from His provision. In the ordinary boundaries of life, walk faithfully, confident that the God who drew the map empowers the journey. |
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