Joshua 12:7-8

Diversity of lots.

The diversity of situation and character in the several lots of the tribes of Israel is illustrative of the similar diversity which is seen in all human experience.

I. DIVERSITY OF LOTS IS A NECESSITY . If we could attain uniformity we could not retain it.

II. DIVERSITY OF LOTS IS LESS SEVERE THAN IT APPEARS TO BE .

III. DIVERSITY OF LOTS IS BENEFICIAL TO US INDIVIDUALLY , Justice is not equality, but fitness. It is not fit that we should all receive equal lots. For some the highlands are most fit, forsome the plains, for some the valleys.

(1) Fitness depends on our capacity . One can serve best in one lot, and another with different faculties in a totally different lot. The talents are given "to every man according to his several ability" ( Matthew 25:15 ).

IV. DIVERSITY OF LOTS IS USEFUL FOR THE GENERAL WELFARE OF MANKIND . Dull uniformity would leave human life at a low level. Civilisation must become complex as it advances. Diversity of lots is necessary for division of labour. "The whole family" is most prosperous when the several members quietly accept their various lots. The mountain lot serves for the shepherd and his flock, the valley for the filler of the soil. Thus the common life of the whole nation is advanced. They who suffer most often have a special part to serve in the ministry of life for the good of their brethren.—W.F.A.

HOMILIES BY E. DE PRESSENSE