Unpopular Requirements of the Good Life

Text: Joshua 17:14-18 Theme: Claiming the promised land requires our hard work and determination. Key verses: “The people of Joseph said to Joshua, ‘Why have you given us only one allotment and one portion for an inheritance? We are a numerous people…’ ‘If you are so numerous,’ Joshua answered, ‘and if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go up into the forest and clear land for yourselves there…” (v. 14-15) “The people of Joseph replied, ‘The hill country is not enough for us, and the Canaanites who live in the plain have iron chariots…” (v. 16) “You are numerous and very powerful…Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have iron chariots and though they are strong, you can drive them out.” (v. 18) What God said to me: Dwayne, my people often want the “good life,” the abundant life I offer, but without the necessary sacrifice required. Living good means working hard. The people of Joseph didn’t want to have clear off all those trees and forests in order to have a place to live there in their promised land. They would have much prefered if someone else had already done that for them. Thus, they were complaining to Joshua. Furthermore, living good means having courage and determination. The people of Joseph didn’t want to have to fight with the Canaanites and their iron chariots. They wanted the easy way to victory and abundance. But there is no easy way, Dwayne, not then and not now. I have gifted you (as I have all my people). I have provided great opportunity for you to “take the land” and the possessions I have awaiting you. However, you must be willing to work hard and smart. You must take courage in the face of daunting circumstances. You are very powerful because I am with you and in you. You have no reason or excuse to be afraid of any enemy or obstacle. Move forward, in courage, in power, in persistence and wisdom. Humbly trust me to work through you to accomplish my mission and to provide you your promised land of peace and joy and victory all the way through this life. What I said to God: Thank you, my precious Lord, for your patience and kindness with me everyday. Thank you for never giving up on me and for always speaking to my heart so clearly. You have entrusted us with a special and wonderful ministry. You have given us unique abilities and insights. Yet at times I admit I am fearful or lazy or just plain ungrateful. Forgive me, please. I will work ’til Jesus comes – hard, smart and consistently.