Joshua 14 The Inheritance West of the Jordan

Allotment of the land was to be completed for all the tribes of Israel, except the Levites. Two and a half tribes received allotments on the East side of the Jordan. The rest of the tribes were to receive their inheritance on the West side of the Jordan. The conquest was assured by the crushing blow of God upon the enemies under the leadership of Joshua. But now, each tribe is to fight for their own territory. I glean a few principles form this historic moment in Israel. Allotment is geographical. The allotted land is not paradise. There will be special allotments as special rewards to those who are faithful.

My life has a circle of influence that I must use in the establishment of God's kingdom upon the earth. I must learn to take responsibility for that circle to advance the cause of the kingdom. Each tribe was apportioned some land to be accountable for it. Even the local church, as an institution, should draw a circle around itself and define its circle of influence. Claim a territory for the glory of God. Not for the land itself, but for the people who live in it. Christ is our "Joshua" who conquered sin and death, but we have battles to fight in our "allotments" or circles of influence.

The inheritance given to the Israelites was not a return to the Garden of Eden or paradise. The allotted land is a place of conquest where they had to drive out the enemies remaining and be on guard to ensure that the enemy did not come back. My life is definitely at rest in Christ, but at the same time, in this "not yet" time in history, I am in the midst of a fierce battle against the powers of darkness. I am to claim my "territory" to make sure I drive out the enemies from my circle of influence and bring the power of the Gospel to bear upon it.

Caleb's life is an inspiration for me. He stands as an example of a life devoted to following God despite the circumstances, despite the people, despite the odds. He was one of the spies who was able to see God conquering the enemy to grant Israel the promised land. I want to be like Caleb. Because of his faithfulness, he was granted a country hill of his request as a special reward for all his work. God will grant special rewards to those who serve him faithfully. Even Caleb had to fight the Anakim (giants) to seize his reward. 

Lord, help me take responsibility for my circle of influence. May the local church take charge of its circle of influence as well. May I be like Caleb; faithful and fearless until the end.