Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Josva var blitt gammel, og Herren sa til ham: «Du er gammel og langt oppe i årene. Det er fortsatt en stor del av landet som skal inntas, og det gjelder hele landområdet til filisterne og alt som tilhører gesjurittene, fra Sjikor, øst for Egypt, og helt til grensen til Ekron i nord. Det blir regnet som kanaaneerland. De fem filisterfyrstene over Gasa – Asjdod, Asjkalon, Gat, Ekron og avittene fra sør – skal også tas. Dette er landområdene dere skal ta: Landet til kanaaneerne og Meara som tilhører sidonierne. Det går helt til Afek, til grensen til amorittene, videre til giblittenes land og hele Libanon, mot soloppgangen, fra Ba’al-Gad nedenfor Hermonfjellet og helt til Lebo-Hamat. Alle som bor i fjellene fra Libanon og helt til Misrefotbekken, og alle sidonierne, skal Jeg drive bort til fordel for Israels folk. Du skal bare dele det ut som arv fra Meg til Israels folk ved hjelp av loddkasting, slik Jeg har befalt deg. Derfor skal du nå dele dette landet mellom de ni stammene og halvparten av Manasses stamme.»
What Does This Mean?
This verse tells us that Joshua was very old, and God reminded him that even though he was getting older, there was still a lot of land that needed to be taken over for the Israelites. God is speaking to Joshua, emphasizing the importance of continuing the mission despite his age.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a big game, and you've been playing for a long time. You're getting a bit tired, but your coach tells you there's still more of the game to play. That's what's happening here—Joshua is tired, but God reminds him there's more work to do.
Historical Background
The Book of Joshua is traditionally attributed to Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after Moses. This passage is written sometime after the conquest of the Promised Land, likely in the 13th or 14th century BCE. The audience is the Israelites, and the cultural setting is one of transitioning from wilderness wandering to settling in the Promised Land.
Living It Out Today
In a modern context, this verse can remind us that no matter our age or how tired we might feel, there's always more work to be done in our lives. Whether it's a project at work or a goal in personal life, God calls us to keep going.
The main message is that God encourages Joshua to keep going despite his age, reminding him of the mission ahead.
How does this verse apply to older Christians today?
It applies by reminding older Christians that they still have important roles and tasks to fulfill in the church and community.
Why is it significant that God mentions Joshua's age?
By mentioning Joshua's age, God shows that He cares about our personal circumstances but also emphasizes the importance of His mission over our own limitations.
What can we learn about perseverance from this verse?
We can learn that perseverance is a key virtue, and that even when we feel our limitations, we should continue to fulfill our mission for God.