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Today’s reading from Joshua 16–18 once again was filled with what might seem like strange places and unfamiliar names as the boundaries for the tribes of Israel were established within the Promised Land. But hidden within these descriptions is a story with a significant lesson.

In chapter 17, the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh is detailed. We learn in verse 12 that they were unable to conquer certain cities within their territory. Instead of continuing to pursue ultimate victory, they became content to use these Canaanites as forced labor—even though they eventually grew strong enough to overpower them if they had chosen to.

In the next breath it seems, the “people of Joseph” (meaning the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim) approached Joshua to complain about their portion. They felt that their allotment was too small, given their large numbers. Joshua responded tactfully but firmly:

“If you are a numerous people, go up by yourselves to the forest and clear ground for yourselves in the land of the Perizzites and the Rephaim, since the hill country of Ephraim is too narrow for you” (Joshua 17:15).

However, the tribes pushed back, insisting that even that would not be enough land and they also relayed their concerns about the inhabitants of the land having iron chariots. Joshua doubled down, encouraging them that despite the strength of their enemies, the house of Joseph could prevail. The argument seems to have ended there, and interestingly, we hear no more about an expanded allotment—likely meaning that the sons of Joseph settled into their “inadequate” portion without further challenge.

Now, compare their attitude with Caleb’s from yesterday’s reading (Joshua 14:6–12). Caleb approached Joshua not with complaint, but with faith. He recounted the story of his and Joshua’s early faithfulness and reminded Joshua of the promise God had made through Moses. Caleb asked to be given the hill country—home of the Anakim (giants) and their fortified cities—saying that with the Lord’s help, he would drive them out. Joshua 15:14 records:

“Caleb drove out from there the three sons of Anak: Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, the descendants of Anak.”

The contrast between Caleb and the house of Joseph is striking: humility versus pride and faith versus timidity. Caleb approached Joshua after years of humble service to the nation, believing in the fulfillment of God’s word. Manasseh and Ephraim came with arrogance and doubt, unwilling to trust that God had apportioned their land perfectly. Caleb entered his own promised land with confidence at age 85, ready to conquer giants by God’s strength. The house of Joseph, despite their size and potential, faded into mediocrity because they failed to complete their calling in the Lord’s power.

Takeaway: We all face giants—those trials and challenges that seem too big for us. Like Caleb, we can embrace the way of the Lord and walk with confidence that He will see us through our trials. Or, like the house of Joseph, we can buckle under the uncertainty of our faith and miss out on the width, breadth, and depth of the territory God has for us. If anyone reading this feels their faith is weak, ask God to strengthen it—and be confident that He will.