Now Ioshua was old and stricken in yeeres, and the Lord saide vnto him; Thou art old, and stricken in yeres, and there remaineth yet very much land to bee possessed. Joshua 13:1 (KJV)
Now Joshua was old
and stricken in years; and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old
and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed. Joshua 13:1 (KJV)
The book of Joshua records the period after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River and entered the Promised Land. Joshua succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel and guided the people in the conquest of Canaan. Chapter 13 marks a transitional moment: Joshua is described as old and well‑advanced in years, and the Lord reminds him that there is still a great portion of land awaiting possession. This reminder underscores that the work of taking possession of the land was far from complete.
Joshua’s age is emphasized repeatedly. The verse states that he was “old and stricken in years,” indicating an advanced age and physical frailty. Yet despite his years, Joshua had faithfully served God and led the nation for many seasons. The Lord’s assessment acknowledges Joshua’s seniority while also pointing to the unfinished task before him.
The divine message, “there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed,” conveys two truths. First, it affirms that the Israelites still had territories in Canaan to conquer. Second, it serves as a broader principle for believers: age does not disqualify one from God’s purpose. The passage encourages us that God can use us at any stage of life, regardless of physical limitations.
From a spiritual perspective, the verse offers three key applications. 1) Age is not a limitation; we should not let our years deter us from serving God or pursuing His plans. 2) The work of possessing the promised land parallels the believer’s mission to grow in faith, share the gospel, and make disciples. The task is ongoing, requiring perseverance until the end. 3) Continual growth is essential. Just as the Israelites were called to expand their inheritance, Christians are invited to explore deeper dimensions of God’s promises, blessings, and spiritual territory, seeking God, deepening understanding of His Word, and maturing in faith.
In summary, Joshua 13:1 highlights Joshua’s advanced age and the Lord’s reminder that much land remains to be possessed. The passage challenges us not to let age limit our service, reminds us of the unfinished tasks before us, and calls us to continual spiritual growth as we pursue God’s purposes for our lives.
