In many jobs, an assistant trains under the leader. It was no different in Moses’ day.  Moses assistant was Joshua, and when Moses died, God commanded him to take Moses’ place and lead the Israelite people to take possession of the promise land. So they began dividing up the land. By the time, we get to Joshua 18 seven tribes still had not taken possession of their land.

This land was theirs. It was their inheritance, promised to them by God. So, why had they not taken up their share of the land yet? The Israelites had been wandering in the wilderness for a long time. God had taken care of them time and time again. They knew no other life. To actually take possession of the land and build a life for themselves would be a big change. They had become content with familiarity. They had become satisfied with the status quo. The problem with this attitude is that it caused them to be disobedient and they were missing what God had for them.

We don’t like change, do we? We are just as guilty as the Israelites were about getting stuck doing what is familiar and comfortable to us. I wonder what is out there for us to possess if we can only get out of own way. What are we missing because we are resisting change? God has big things for us. He wants our obedience so that he can bless us. So, how long will we wait to take possession of our land?

It takes courage to go beyond what we have always known and venture into new territory. The same God that gave the command to possess the land also gave another command. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) (NIV)

Let’s trust God to go with us and be obedient. Now is the time to step out in faith and claim what is already ours!

“So Joshua said to the Israelites: “How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given you?” (Joshua 18:3) (NIV)