All the inhabitants of the hill country from Lebanon unto Misrephoth-maim, and all the Sidonians, them will I drive out from before the children of Israel: only divide thou it by lot unto the Israelites for an inheritance, as I have commanded thee.
Joshua is told to divide the land by lot at once, though enemies still hold it, a test of faith in God's promise. Do your duty in distribution and trust His lips; doubt will not delay you when confidence is founded on the Lord. Obey His commands, and the event will not disappoint you.
AI summary
God reminds Joshua of his age so he will quicken to finish his work and prepare for death approaching apace. Gray hairs steal upon a man unnoticed; he needs to be told of them. Old age brings evil days with little strength left, and it was enough that Joshua had reduced the body of the country.
AI summary
Commenting on Joshua 13:1-6
The Lord promises to drive out these inhabitants, yet the Sidonians and many others were never actually possessed by Israel, the promise hung on their obedience. Joshua's sole work now was dividing the whole land by lot, both what was subdued and what was not, leaving future conquests to others.
AI summary