Why did the tribe of Joseph feel their land allotment was insufficient? Text in Focus “Then the sons of Joseph said to Joshua, ‘Why have you only given us one allotment and one portion as an inheritance? We are a numerous people, for the LORD has blessed us abundantly.’ ” (Joshua 17:14) The Complaint Explained • Population pressure: Joseph—through Ephraim and Manasseh—had swelled in numbers (cf. Numbers 26:28-37). • Perceived mismatch: They equated blessing with entitlement to a larger, easier tract of land. • Expectation of a “double portion”: Jacob had treated Joseph as the firstborn and promised him an extra share (Genesis 48:5-22). The tribes assumed the promise guaranteed immediate, effortless abundance. • Unwillingness to clear difficult terrain: Verse 16 reveals they preferred fertile valleys already cleared by Canaanites—yet defended by “iron chariots.” Hill country covered with forest looked like hard work. Historical and Covenant Expectations • Jacob’s prophetic blessing: “I have given you one portion more than your brothers” (Genesis 48:22). The word for “portion” (Heb. shechem) hints at both a plot of land and responsibility to take it. • Distribution principle: “To a larger tribe you shall give a larger inheritance” (Numbers 26:54). Joseph believed the law backed their claim. • God’s promise dependent on obedience: Land was theirs in title, but conquest required faith (Deuteronomy 20:1; Joshua 1:9). Joshua’s Response and God’s Remedy • Affirmation of blessing—followed by assignment of duty (Joshua 17:15-18): – “If you are a numerous people, go up to the forest and clear a place for yourselves.” – The hill country of Ephraim was “too narrow” only because trees and enemies still occupied it. • Assurance of victory: “Though the Canaanites have iron chariots and though they are strong, you can drive them out.” • Key insight: God had provided enough land; they needed to cultivate faith, diligence, and courage to possess it. Lessons for Today • Blessing includes responsibility; abundance can feel too small when we avoid the work attached to it. • Promises of God are literal and trustworthy—yet He often leaves room for our obedience to activate them. • Apparent shortages may expose areas where faith must replace fear of “iron chariots.” • Discontent is cured not by demanding more but by fully using what God already placed in our hands. |
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