Joshua 17:1-18
Manasseh receives his portion of land and at once the five daughters of Zelophehad appear with their beautiful determination. Referring to the LORD’S commandment to Moses, they claim the long awaited portion of land. Half of their tribe chose the other side of Jordan, but for them the question does not arise. Their inheritance is in Canaan amongst their brethren. Let us be reminded by this incident that if Christian women are not called to a number of public ministries such as preaching, their inheritance and enjoyment of heavenly blessings are in no way inferior to those of their brethren.
In a general way, let us notice with what care the LORD marks the limits of each tribe. In turn, each one receives his portion of land with firstly an indication of the border and then the list of towns found within it. God expects from His people in return eagerness to take possession. Now look at Ephraim! He does not like his mountain; it requires too much effort. He asks for another portion of land, not out of faith but idleness. How much we lose, like this tribe, through lack of energy, especially in the area which is always open to us, prayer (James 4:2).