Day 17

Joshua 18-20

The Tragedy of Neglect

How long will you neglect to go and possess the land – Josh. 18:3

            Of Israel’s 12 tribes, seven had not yet received their inheritance when they set up the tabernacle in Shiloh.  They had neglected to possess the land God had given them.  The sole reason for entering Canaan was to possess the land.  Each tribe was responsible for settling their own territory and protecting their own borders.  How could the people of God miss the plan of God?  That question never goes away.  We need to ask it today?

            To neglect means to leave something undone through carelessness.  Webster’s primary definition of neglect is to disregard.  Finally, the truth comes out.  The biggest sin of all is neglect.  It was then.  It is today.  Most people don’t miss God’s plan because they don’t know, but because they don’t care.  The saints continue to regard every comfort, convenience, and concern more highly than the purpose of God.  We have neglected to possess what has been given us by our God.

            The question is, How long will you neglect?  Joshua thought he deserved an answer to that question.  Better yet, he thought God deserved an answer.  The land was subdued.  The meeting place was chosen.  The Tabernacle was ready.  Their God was waiting.  How can God receive worship from a people who disregard His purpose and dismantled His plan? 

            Maybe we should revisit the idea of worship.  Does worship consist of showing up, singing songs, giving money, hearing sermons, observing formalities and going home?  Or is worship something about life-style, priority, obedience, going out, living the life?   You know – taking the territory – possessing the land.  Romans 12:1 describes spiritual worship as a living sacrifice.  The Lord has everything in place.  He is ready and waiting.  Will we continue to disregard Him?

Just do it!