March 26

Joshua 12-15 (biblegateway.com)

Claiming the Promises

Joshua 12-15 marks a significant transition in Israel’s journey as they begin to divide the Promised Land among the tribes. Chapter 12 provides a summary of the defeated kings. Chapters 13-15 shift the focus to the division of the land, with Joshua allotting territories to the various tribes as directed by God.

Now that the land has been conquered, and before it is apportioned, Joshua 12 summarizes the full extent of the conquest. Verses 1–6 describe the land beyond the Jordan, including the territories of the Transjordanian kings whom Israel had conquered under Moses’ leadership (Num. 21:21–35). Verses 7–24 list the kings whom Joshua and the people of Israel defeated on the west side of the Jordan, the total coming to 31. This chapter recounts the first half of the book of Joshua, highlighting that as long as the people trusted and obeyed God, one evil nation after another fell in defeat. It also highlights God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to give Israel the land and sets the stage for the division of territory among the tribes in the coming chapters.

The first section (v. 1-6) recounts the victories under Moses before Israel crossed the Jordan River. The Israelites defeated Sihon, King of the Amorites (Numbers 21:21-31), and Og, King of Bashan, one of the last of the Rephaim (Numbers 21:33-35). These kings controlled lands east of the Jordan, which God gave to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh (v. 6). Their defeat symbolized God’s power and His ability to remove obstacles that stood in Israel’s way. This reminds us that God is the one who grants victory to His people, not human strength alone. Are there obstacles in your life that seem too great to overcome? Trust that God is faithful to go before you and secure the victory.

The second section (v. 7-24) details the 31 kings defeated by Joshua west of the Jordan. These victories occurred in both the northern and southern regions, demonstrating God’s complete authority over the land. Sixteen kings of southern Canaan are listed first (v. 9-16). The south included key cities like Jericho, Ai, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon, among others, which all fell under Israelite control. These conquests included the dramatic victory at Gibeon, where Joshua prayed, and God caused the sun to stand still (Joshua 10:12-14). Next, fifteen kings of northern Canaan are listed. In the north, Israel defeated kings from Hazor, Madon, Shimron, and Achshaph, crushing the alliance led by King Jabin of Hazor. These victories fulfilled God’s command to drive out the Canaanites (Deuteronomy 7:1-2), ensuring that Israel would inherit the land as promised to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). The extensive list of kings serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and power—He is a God who fulfills His word, even when the task seems impossible. Are you trying to fight battles in your own strength, or are you trusting in God’s power to secure victory? Instead of relying on your own abilities, surrender your struggles to Him, knowing that He is faithful.

Joshua 12 is not merely a historical record but a declaration of God’s sovereignty over nations and rulers. The long list of defeated kings testifies to the faithfulness of God in bringing Israel into their inheritance. These victories were not achieved by human effort alone but by God’s divine intervention and Israel’s obedience. However, their success was dependent on following God’s instructions—as seen when disobedience (such as Achan’s sin in Joshua 7) led to setbacks. This chapter also prepares the way for the division of the land, marking the transition from conquest to settlement. It challenges us to reflect on whether we are fully trusting God’s promises in our own lives. Just as He fought for Israel, He fights for us in our spiritual battles, equipping us with His Word, strength, and presence. Are you walking in faith and claiming God’s promises, or are you hesitant to step forward? Just as Israel had to take possession of the land, we must actively live out our faith, trusting that God will fulfill His word in His perfect time.

Joshua 13 marks the beginning of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. Though much of Canaan had been conquered, there were still unconquered territories, and God instructs Joshua to continue the process of allocating the land so that each tribe could take full possession of their inheritance. (see the detailed map below)

To many, this section of Joshua, with its detailed lists of boundaries and cities, may seem tedious. One commentator even described it as reading like a real estate deed—and in a sense, that’s exactly what it is. These passages contain legal descriptions, written in the style of the ancient world, documenting the land allocations for the twelve tribes of Israel. While they may not seem exciting at first glance, they hold great significance.

This was a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. After centuries of slavery in Egypt, decades of wandering in the wilderness, and years of battle in Canaan, the Israelites were finally able to settle in their own land. They could now build homes, plant crops, raise families, and experience the peace that comes with fulfilled promises. The division of the land wasn’t just a formal process—it was a long-awaited moment of joy and fulfillment in the life of God’s people.

The chapter opens with God acknowledging that Joshua is now old and advanced in years, yet much of the land remains unconquered (v. 1). These include regions in the north and along the Philistine and Canaanite territories (v. 2-6). God reassures Joshua that He Himself will drive out the remaining inhabitants (v. 6),  instructing Joshua to divide the land among the tribes of Israel (v. 7). This chapter emphasizes that while victories had been won, Israel’s mission was not yet complete, and they still needed to trust in God’s promise to give them the entire land. God is sovereign over all lands and peoples, but He calls His people to participate in fulfilling His promises. Are there areas in your life where God has given you a promise, but you have not fully stepped forward to claim it? Trust in His power to bring it to completion, but also take action in obedience.

The passage notes that the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan, as assigned by Moses (v. 8-12). It also mentions that the Levites were not given a land inheritance because their portion was the Lord Himself, and they were set apart for priestly service (v. 14). Instead of land, they would receive tithes and offerings from the other tribes.

The chapter then details the inheritance given to each tribe east of the Jordan (v. 15-31). Again, this land was already conquered under Moses, as seen in the victories over Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan. These tribes had requested to settle in this region, and though granted permission, they were still required to help their fellow Israelites conquer the rest of the Promised Land. The account of the distribution of the land begins with the allocation of this territory to the tribes of Reuben (v. 15-23), Gad (v. 24-28), and the half-tribe of Manasseh (v. 29-31) in the days of Moses. The chapter also mentions the fate of Balaam, the false prophet who had been killed by Israel during their conquest of Moab (v. 22, Numbers 31:8). This brief reference serves as a reminder that those who oppose God will ultimately face judgment.

Joshua 13 is a chapter of transition and preparation. Though much had been conquered, there was still more work to be done. God had been faithful in delivering victories, but the Israelites had to take the initiative to fully possess the land. In the same way, we are often given spiritual blessings and promises, yet we must step forward in faith to claim them. This chapter challenges us to trust in God’s provision, fulfill our responsibilities, and recognize that our ultimate inheritance is found in Him. Let us not become complacent but actively pursue all that God has in store for us.

Joshua 14 turns to the distribution of the land in Canaan, west of the Jordan, to the remaining nine-and-a-half tribes. The chapter begins with an introduction to how the land was divided. Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and the leaders of Israel oversaw the process, ensuring it was done by lot, as commanded by God through Moses (v. 1-2). We are reminded again, however, that the Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance; instead, they were given towns to live in and pasturelands for their flocks (v. 3-4).

The Israelites divided the land, just as the Lord had commanded Moses (v. 5), which was that each tribe was to receive territory proportionate to its population with the casting of lots to determine its location (Num. 26:54-56). According to Jewish tradition, the name of a tribe was drawn from one urn and simultaneously the boundary lines of a territory from another. This method designated each tribal inheritance. But blind chance did not decide the tribal location, for God was superintending the whole procedure (Prov. 16:33). This shows that the inheritance was not based on human decision but on God’s divine will.

First, we see God’s faithfulness to His promises through the story of Caleb, who remains a powerful example of unwavering faith and perseverance (v. 6-15). Caleb, now 85 years old, approaches Joshua, reminding him of the promise that God had made to him 45 years earlier (v. 6, referencing Numbers 14:24). Caleb was one of the two faithful spies (along with Joshua) who had trusted in God’s ability to give Israel victory when the other ten spies doubted (Numbers 13:30, 14:6-9). Because of his faithfulness, God promised that Caleb would receive the land where he had set foot (Deuteronomy 1:35-36). Despite his old age, Caleb confidently declares that he is as strong as he was when Moses first sent him out, ready to take possession of the land God had promised him (v. 10-11). His request is specific—he asks for Hebron, a mountainous region still occupied by the Anakim, a race of giants (v. 12). Instead of fearing these strongholds, Caleb embraces the challenge, trusting that God will help him conquer the land.

This passage reveals several key theological truths. First, God honors faithfulness—Caleb waited 45 years for the fulfillment of God’s promise, never wavering in his belief that God would bring it to pass. Second, God’s promises require perseverance—though Caleb had received the promise, he still had to fight to take possession of it. Third, age is not a limitation in serving God—Caleb, at 85, was still ready to engage in battle for the sake of God’s kingdom. Have you given up on a promise from God because it seems delayed? Like Caleb, are you willing to wait on God’s timing while still actively pursuing His will? Trust that God is always faithful to fulfill what He has promised.

Joshua grants Caleb’s request, and Hebron becomes his inheritance (v. 13-14). The final verse of the chapter states that the land had rest from war, signifying a transition from conquest to settlement (v. 15).

Joshua 14 is a powerful reminder that God keeps His promises, but we must be willing to act in faith to claim them. Caleb’s story inspires us to live with boldness, perseverance, and trust in God’s faithfulness, no matter how long the wait may be. Just as Caleb confidently declared, “The Lord helping me, I will drive them out” (Joshua 14:12), may we also step forward in faith, trusting that God will equip us to overcome every obstacle in our journey with Him.

Joshua 15 focuses on the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. With Caleb’s request granted, Joshua resumed the task of dividing the land west of the Jordan among the nine and a half tribes. Judah was the first to receive an inheritance, and as the largest tribe, its portion was greater than any other. The prominence of Judah in the land distribution highlights God’s sovereign plan, as this tribe would later produce King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ, the Messiah (Genesis 49:10, Matthew 1:1-2).

The chapter begins by outlining the boundaries of Judah’s inheritance (v. 1-12). The land extends from the southernmost regions near Edom and the wilderness of Zin, westward to the Mediterranean Sea, and northward toward the border of Benjamin. The detailed geographical description signifies God’s precise allocation of the land, ensuring that each tribe receives what was divinely appointed. This reminds us that God assigns each of us specific roles and responsibilities, and we must be faithful stewards of what He has given. Are you content with the place and purpose God has given you, or are you comparing your inheritance to others? Trust that God’s plan for you is uniquely designed for His glory and your good.

The next section revisits Caleb’s inheritance in Hebron (v. 13-19). As recorded in Joshua 14, Caleb received Hebron as his inheritance, and he proceeded to drive out the Anakim—the giants who once terrified Israel (v. 13-14). His boldness in claiming the land exemplifies that God’s promises require action and faith. Additionally, Caleb’s daughter, Achsah, plays a key role in this passage. When she marries Othniel, a future judge of Israel (Judges 3:9-11), she asks her father for additional land and water sources (v.18-19).

This teaches us that God invites us to boldly ask for His provision, knowing that He desires to bless His children. Do you approach God with boldness, trusting Him to provide for your needs? Just as Achsah confidently asked for blessings, we too should come before God with faith, knowing that He delights in giving good gifts to His children.

The remainder of the chapter lists the cities that belonged to Judah. These cities are grouped into four regions: the Negev - Southern Cities (v. 21-32), the Western Foothills (v. 33-47), the Hill Country (v. 48-60), and the Wilderness ( v. 61-62). This extensive listing reinforces that God’s promises were tangible—the Israelites were not just given vague blessings, but real cities, land, and homes. It also underscores Judah’s role as a leading tribe, which would later become the center of Israel’s monarchy and spiritual life in Jerusalem. This reminds us that God is a God of order and purpose, ensuring that each part of His plan is fulfilled perfectly.

The chapter closes with an important note: Judah was unable to drive out the Jebusites from Jerusalem, so they continued to live there (v. 63). This foreshadows Israel’s ongoing struggles with incomplete obedience. It would not be until the time of King David that Jerusalem was fully conquered (2 Samuel 5:6-9). This failure highlights the danger of partial obedience, which can lead to compromise and future struggles. God calls His people to complete faithfulness, not half-hearted devotion.

Joshua 15 is a rich chapter filled with history, faith, and fulfillment. Judah’s inheritance points to God’s faithfulness, Caleb’s boldness illustrates the power of unwavering faith, and Achsah’s request teaches us to boldly seek God’s provision. At the same time, the failure to fully drive out the Jebusites warns us against spiritual complacency. As we reflect on this passage, may we be reminded to fully trust in God’s promises, boldly claim our spiritual inheritance, and walk in complete obedience to His will.

In conclusion, the division of the land in Joshua 12-15 is a reminder that God’s promises are not just spoken, but fulfilled. The victories over kings, the detailed allotments, and Caleb’s unwavering faith all point to a God who is faithful to those who follow Him wholeheartedly. While the conquest was not yet complete, the distribution of the land encouraged the tribes to step forward in faith and take possession of what God had given them. These chapters challenge us to reflect on whether we are fully embracing God’s promises in our own lives—walking in faith, obeying His commands, and trusting that He will lead us into the inheritance He has prepared for us.

Map - Division of the land to the Tribes