Chapter Study & Analysis
Overview
Joshua 16 describes the inheritance of the children of Joseph, specifically the borders for the tribe of Ephraim, noting that they also failed to drive out all the Canaanites, choosing instead to put them under tribute.
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS
1. The Temptation of Compromise: Ephraim chose to tax the Canaanites rather than remove them (v. 10). We must beware of trying to "manage" or profit from a sin rather than eliminating it as God commanded.
2. The Responsibility of Favor: As a leading tribe, Ephraim had much given to them. "To whom much is given, much is required." We must use our influence and resources to honor God’s commands fully.
3. Recognizing God’s Sovereignty: The borders were determined by lot, showing that God’s will is the final authority in our placement and prosperity.
Practical Lessons
FORMAL PRAYER
Heavenly Father, deliver us from the temptation to compromise Thy commands for the sake of convenience or profit. Grant us the integrity to walk in the fullness of Thy will without reservation. Amen.