What does "took for themselves" in Joshua 11:14 teach about God's blessings? Setting the Scene Joshua 11 recounts Israel’s northern campaign under Joshua’s leadership. After decisive victories, verse 14 records the aftermath: “Israel took as their plunder all the livestock and goods of these cities, but they struck down every person with the sword until they had destroyed them; they left no one who breathed.” The phrase “took for themselves” highlights more than battlefield spoils; it reveals how God distributes His blessings to His covenant people. Key Phrase: “Took for Themselves” • A literal, conscious act of receiving what God had placed into their hands • A collective action—“Israel” as one nation gathers the plunder, underscoring shared blessing • A divinely authorized taking; the goods are not seized unlawfully but granted by God (Joshua 11:6, 8) Lessons About God’s Blessings • God is the true Owner and Giver – Israel’s “taking” is possible only because God first gave. • Blessings often follow obedience and spiritual warfare – Joshua 11:9-10 shows strict obedience to God’s commands; the plunder comes afterward. • Provision can be tangible – Livestock and goods meet practical needs for a people soon to settle the land (Deuteronomy 6:10-11). • Blessings are corporate as well as individual – The whole nation benefits, illustrating that God’s gifts are meant to build community. • Receipt of blessing carries responsibility – Deuteronomy 8:17-18 warns against saying, “My power … has gotten me this wealth.” – Proper stewardship honors the Lord (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Blessing is paired with holiness – The goods are kept, but the idolatrous people are destroyed; God’s gifts must not compromise purity (Joshua 23:6-8). Echoes in the Wider Story • Abram’s victory plunder (Genesis 14:20-23) shows that receiving or refusing spoils must align with God’s direction. • Israel’s later failure at Ai (Joshua 7) contrasts sharply—Achan seized what God had forbidden, turning blessing into judgment. • 1 Timothy 6:17 balances enjoyment of God-given riches with a call to generosity and trust in the Giver. Personal Application • Recognize every resource—money, time, ability—as a God-granted spoil to be stewarded, not hoarded. • Expect God’s provision on the far side of obedience; battles faced in faith often open doors to unexpected supply. • Guard the heart: blessings must never eclipse the Blesser. Gratitude and holiness keep possessions from possessing us. Conclusion “Took for themselves” in Joshua 11:14 teaches that when God leads, He also provides. His blessings are real, timely, and purposeful—given to a faithful people so they may live, worship, and witness under His generous hand. |
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