The land allotments of Joshua 15-19 are not exactly a gripping read, but it is important to note what this says about the text we are reading. This is not just a story; it is not even just a piece of historical writing. This text would have been used as a legal document. In future generations, the tribes could refer to this to claim the rights of their inheritance. It would be especially important to know these rights on the year of jubilee when property was redistributed to its traditional owners (Leviticus 25). It must be understood, therefore, that the writer of the book of Joshua did not see himself as telling a tall story. Tall stories cannot act as legal precedents, at least not in the context of Ancient Israel. The writer is reporting that these remarkable events actually took place. It is important to remember this as we read the historical literature of the Bible, especially as we read of the miracles that took place. As you read, try to imagine what it may have been like and how it must have felt. This is not just a story of an ancient people; this is your spiritual heritage. You have been grafted into God’s family and these stories are your spiritual precedents. As God ensured that there was an inheritance for Israel, he is also holding an inheritance for you. Your inheritance, however, has no boundaries.
Pray the prayer of Ephesians 1:18 and praise God with the words of Psalm 16:5,6.
Look over Joshua 15-19
