Why is it important to "survey the land" before making decisions in life? The Biblical Picture: Joshua 18:4 “Appoint three men from each tribe. I will send them out to survey the land and write a description of it for the purpose of dividing it as an inheritance.” Why the Survey Matters • Acknowledges God’s gift—yet insists on human stewardship. • Replaces guesswork with accurate facts, avoiding costly mistakes (cf. Proverbs 18:13; 19:2). • Invites unity and accountability: three men per tribe ensured balanced perspective (cf. Proverbs 11:14). • Transforms information into obedience—Joshua later “cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD” (Joshua 18:10). • Models faith-filled planning: trust in God does not cancel careful preparation (cf. Luke 14:28). Lessons for Today • Gather reliable data before big moves—career changes, marriage, purchases. • Count the cost; order priorities (Proverbs 24:27). • Seek multi-angle counsel, not echo chambers (Proverbs 15:22). • Spot risks early; the prudent “see danger and hide” (Proverbs 27:12). • Convert findings into decisive, prayer-backed action—knowledge without action stalls inheritance (James 1:22). Trust and Balance • Plan thoroughly, yet lean on the Lord for direction (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Remember past failures of fearful surveying (Numbers 13) and choose faith-driven obedience instead (Joshua 1:9). Survey first, decide next—because faithful stewardship marries careful preparation with confident trust in God’s promises. |
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