Joshua:17

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* Verse 1-6 - Manasseh was but half of the tribe of Joseph , yet it was divided into two parts . The daughters of Zelophehad now reaped the benefit of their pious zeal and prudent forecast . Those who take care in the wilderness of this world , to make sure to themselves a place in the inheritance of the saints in light , will have the comfort of it in the other world ; while those who neglect it now , will lose it for ever . Lord , teach us here to believe and obey , and give us an inheritance among thy saints , in glory everlasting . * Verse 7-13 - There was great communication between Manasseh and Ephraim . Though each tribe had its inheritance , yet they should intermix one with another , to do good offices one to another , as became those , who , though of different tribes , were all one Israel , and were bound to love as brethren . But they suffered the Canaanites to live among them , against the command of God , to serve their own ends . * Verse 14-18 - Joshua , as a public person , had no more regard to his own tribe than to any other , but would govern without favour or affection ; wherein he has left a good example to all in public trusts . Joshua tells them , that what was fallen to their share would be a sufficient lot for them , if they would but work and fight . Men excuse themselves from labour by any pretence ; and nothing serves the purpose better than having rich and powerful relations , able to provide for them ; and they are apt to desire a partial and unfaithful disposal of what is intrusted to those they think able to give such help . But there is more real kindness in pointing out the advantages within reach , and in encouraging men to make the best of them , than in granting indulgences to sloth and extravagance . True religion gives no countenance to these evils . The rule is , They shall not eat who will not work ; and many of our "cannots " are only the language of idleness , which magnifies every difficulty and danger . This is especially the case in our spiritual work and warfare . Without Christ we can do nothing , but we are apt to sit still and attempt nothing . if we belong to Him , he will stir us up to our best endeavours , and to cry to him for help . Then our coast will be enlarged , 1st Chronicles strkjv @4:9 ,10 ,. and complainings silenced , or rather , turned into joyful thanksgivings . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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