Old Testament

Joshua 24:13

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, God reminds the Israelites of the blessings they have received without having to work for them.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
Written
Around 1400-1370 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
The Israelites entering Canaan
CBTClear Bible Translation

I have given you a land you did not work for, and cities you did not build, and you live in them. You eat from vineyards and olive groves you did not plant.

KJVKing James Version

And I have given you a land for which ye did not labour, and cities which ye built not, and ye dwell in them; of the vineyards and oliveyards which ye planted not do ye eat.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God reminds the Israelites of the blessings they have received without having to work for them. He emphasizes that they now inhabit cities and land that they did not build or cultivate. This serves as a reminder of God's grace and provision, highlighting His role in giving them a prosperous life in the Promised Land. The mention of vineyards and olive groves they did not plant underscores the idea that their success is not solely due to their own efforts but is a gift from God. This verse encourages gratitude and recognition of divine blessings, urging the Israelites to remember their dependence on God for their prosperity and well-being. It also serves as a call to stewardship, reminding them to honor God with the gifts they have received and to live righteously in the land He has provided.

How to apply Joshua 24:13 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate the blessings in our lives that we did not earn. It reminds us to be grateful for what we have and to use our resources wisely. Acknowledging God's gifts can inspire us to live with humility and share our blessings with others.

Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Joshua 24:13 mean?

Joshua 24:13 highlights God's generosity in giving the Israelites a land and cities they did not work for. It emphasizes that their prosperity is a result of God's grace and provision, reminding them to be thankful for His blessings.

What is the significance of 'land you did not work for' in Joshua 24:13?

The phrase 'land you did not work for' signifies that the Israelites received blessings without their own labor, illustrating God's grace. It serves as a reminder that their success is a gift from God, not just a result of their efforts.

What does 'cities you did not build' refer to in Joshua 24:13?

'Cities you did not build' refers to the towns and settlements in the Promised Land that the Israelites inherited without having constructed them. This highlights God's provision and the importance of recognizing His role in their lives.

How does Joshua 24:13 relate to gratitude?

Joshua 24:13 encourages gratitude by reminding the Israelites of the blessings they received without earning them. It calls for an acknowledgment of God's gifts and inspires a thankful attitude towards their circumstances.

The Book of Joshua
Book Summary

The Book of Joshua

1: God Commissions Joshua

After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.

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