A Blessing in Departure: Embracing God's Sending
"So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents." - Joshua 22:6

**Scriptural Reference: Joshua 22:6**
*“So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents.”*
In the grand narrative of the Book of Joshua, we find a pivotal moment when the people of Israel, after years of wandering in the wilderness and countless battles, stand on the brink of a new chapter in their collective life. The verse, Joshua 22:6, succinctly encapsulates a significant moment of transition - a farewell, a blessing, and a return to rest. This moment is packed with profound implications, not only for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh but also for us today as we navigate the thresholds in our own lives.
**The Context of the Blessing**
As we delve into this verse, it's essential to consider the context surrounding it. The Israelites had successfully conquered the Promised Land and had entered into a period of settlement. Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh had requested to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River, and after much discussion, Joshua granted their request. The blessing that Joshua bestows upon them is not merely a ceremonial gesture; it symbolizes God’s favor and affirmation of their journey. In blessings, God’s purpose for our lives is recognized, and His presence is invoked.
**Understanding the Weight of Blessings**
In our own lives, blessings often serve as marks of affirmation. When Joshua blessed the tribes, he did not just send them away; he equipped them with spiritual strength for the journey ahead. Similarly, God blesses us not just for our own enjoyment, but for the roles we are called to fulfill. Every blessing that we receive is a charge to go forth and live out the calling upon our lives. Jesus similarly imparted blessing: He did not just bless the disciples, He commanded them to go out and preach the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20).
**The Act of Sending**
The phrase 'sent them away' implies action, movement, and divine authority. Joshua's action of sending them signifies that they are not being dismissed but rather entrusted with a mission. Not every season is meant to be the same; God sends us into various stages of our life not to abandon us but to cultivate our growth and reliance on Him. In moments of transition, we must be attuned to how God may be sending us into new territories, sometimes unfamiliar or daunting. He assures us that however challenging the path may be, His blessings go with us.
**Returning to Our Tents**
The subsequent line, *“and they went unto their tents”*, speaks volumes about finding rest in God’s provision. The 'tents' symbolize not just a physical dwelling but a safe haven, a reminder that our ultimate home is with God. After the call to action, there is a return to a place of refuge. In our own lives, we often embark on ventures, but it is essential to seek and find rest. This rest can only be obtained through connection with God, who provides shelter, guidance, and peace as we undertake our journeys.
**Conclusion: Embracing Movement and Rest**
As we reflect on Joshua 22:6, let us contemplate how God is blessing us in our current situation. Are we aware of the blessings bestowed upon us and ready to fulfill the calling that follows? Perhaps we are in a season of sending - a new job, a new relationship, or geographical change. Let us receive these opportunities with open hearts, understanding that with every challenge comes God’s assurance to bless and guide us. Alternatively, if we are returning to our tents - a moment of quiet, rest, and reflection - may we do so with gratitude and anticipation for what God has next in store.
By internalizing the rhythms of blessings, sending, and returning, we can navigate our journey with a faithful heart, always looking to both the responsibility of action and the joy of rest.
Want to reflect more on Joshua 22:6?
Continue your spiritual journey with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, discover connections, and deepen your understanding.
Get Our Apps
Joshua 22:6 Artwork
Joshua 22:6 - "So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents."
"So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents." - Joshua 22:6
Joshua 6:22 - "But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her."
Joshua 22:1 - "Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh,"
Joshua 7:22 - "¶ So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran unto the tent; and, behold, it was hid in his tent, and the silver under it."
Joshua 15:22 - "And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah,"
Joshua 10:22 - "Then said Joshua, Open the mouth of the cave, and bring out those five kings unto me out of the cave."
Joshua 6
Joshua 6:12 - "¶ And Joshua rose early in the morning, and the priests took up the ark of the LORD."
Joshua 6:27 - "So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country."
Joshua 18:22 - "And Beth-arabah, and Zemaraim, and Beth-el,"
Rubenites buyilding alter in Joshua 22
"Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh," - Joshua 22:1
Joshua 6:20
Joshua 24:22 - "And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses."
Joshua 6:20
Joshua 6:6 - "¶ And Joshua the son of Nun called the priests, and said unto them, Take up the ark of the covenant, and let seven priests bear seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark of the LORD."
Joshua 12:22 - "The king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam of Carmel, one;"
"But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her." - Joshua 6:22
"And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah," - Joshua 15:22
Joshua 6:17-25
Joshua 21:22 - "And Kibzaim with her suburbs, and Beth-horon with her suburbs; four cities."
Joshua 22:22 - "The LORD God of gods, the LORD God of gods, he knoweth, and Israel he shall know; if it be in rebellion, or if in transgression against the LORD, (save us not this day,)"
Joshua 22:7 - "¶ Now to the one half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given possession in Bashan: but unto the other half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them,"
Joshua 6:2 - "And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour."
Rubenites building alter of "immense size" in Joshua 22
Joshua 9:22 - "¶ And Joshua called for them, and he spake unto them, saying, Wherefore have ye beguiled us, saying, We are very far from you; when ye dwell among us?"
Joshua 6:25 - "And Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father's household, and all that she had; and she dwelleth in Israel even unto this day; because she hid the messengers, which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho."
Joshua 11:22 - "There was none of the Anakims left in the land of the children of Israel: only in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod, there remained."
Joshua 6:27 - "So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country."