“And the border of the children of Reuben was Jordan, and the border thereof. This was the inheritance of the children of Reuben after their families, the cities and the villages thereof.”
Context:The book of Joshua describes the division of the land of Canaan among the twelve tribes of Israel. This particular verse focuses on the inheritance of the tribe of Reuben. Moses had assigned the eastern side of the Jordan River to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh (Numbers 32:33). Now, after the conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, the tribes were receiving their allotted portions of the land.
Key Points:
- Inheritance:The verse highlights the concept of inheritance, which was a significant aspect of the division of the land. Each tribe received its portion as an inheritance from the Lord. It was a fulfillment of the promise made to their forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:7; 13:15; 15:18).
- Borders:The verse mentions the border of the children of Reuben as the Jordan River. The Jordan River served as a natural boundary between the tribes on the eastern side and those on the western side of the Promised Land. It delineated the territory that Reuben inherited.
- Families and Cities:The verse mentions that the inheritance of the children of Reuben consisted of both cities and villages. This indicates that the land allotted to Reuben was not only agricultural but also included urban areas with fortified cities and smaller settlements. It demonstrates that the Israelites inherited a developed and established land.
- Tribal Unity:Although each tribe received its own portion of land, it is important to note that they were still part of a greater whole, the nation of Israel. The division of the land among the tribes ensures that each tribe had its own territory while maintaining the unity of the people of Israel.
Lessons and Applications:
- Faithfulness to God’s Promises:The fulfillment of the promise of the land to the descendants of Abraham shows God’s faithfulness. Just as God fulfilled His promises to the Israelites, He remains faithful to His promises today. We can trust in God’s faithfulness and rely on His promises.
- Gratitude for Inheritance:The Israelites received their inheritance from the Lord. Similarly, as believers in Christ, we have received an inheritance in Him (Ephesians 1:11). We should be grateful for the spiritual blessings and the inheritance we have in Christ.
- Contentment with Our Portion:Each tribe received a specific portion of the land, and it was their allotted inheritance. In our own lives, it is essential to be content with what God has given us. We should not compare our portion with others but rather appreciate and make the most of what God has entrusted to us.
- Unity in Diversity:The tribes had their own territories, but they were still united as the people of Israel. This teaches us the importance of unity amidst diversity within the body of Christ. Though we may have different backgrounds and giftings, we are all part of the larger family of God.
Overall, Joshua 13:23 emphasizes the fulfillment of God’s promises, the importance of inheritance, and the unity of the tribes of Israel. It encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness, be grateful for our spiritual inheritance, be content with our portion, and embrace unity amidst diversity.
