Challenge the Status Quo

Challenge the Status Quo 

“Because the daughters of Manasseh received an inheritance along with his sons, the land of Gilead belonged to the rest of the people of Manasseh.” (Joshua 17:6) 

The daughters of Zelophehad occupy a unique place in Israel’s history. They were the first—and for a long time, the only—women to receive an inheritance in a culture where land was passed exclusively through sons. Their distinction was not accidental; it was the product of courage, clarity, and conviction.

Before their bold request, no daughter in Israel inherited land. Zelophehad had no sons, only daughters, and by existing custom, his name and lineage would have been erased. But these women refused to accept a tradition that produced injustice. They approached Moses with a simple yet profound question: “Why should our father’s name be lost among his clan because he had no son?” Moses had no immediate answer, so he took their case before God. God’s response was clear—the daughters were right.

What is remarkable is not only that they received their inheritance, but that their courage reshaped the norm. What was once culturally unacceptable became divinely endorsed and legally established. Joshua 17:6 confirms the outcome: the daughters inherited alongside the sons.

These women teach us that some limitations exist not because God ordained them, but because no one has ever challenged them. They did not rebel rudely or protest violently; they made a respectful, reasoned demand for justice. They questioned assumptions, trusted God’s fairness, and refused to settle for less than what was right.

Many of us live beneath our potential, restrained by traditions, mindsets, or systems that God never intended to limit us. Sometimes, faith looks like a quiet resolve that says, “It can be better.” When we get it right, our obedience and courage do not end with us—they create a pathway for others to follow.

Reflection
Are there areas of your life where you have accepted “this is how it has always been” without asking God if it should remain so? Courageous faith does not dishonour authority, but it does refuse injustice. Like the daughters of Zelophehad, God invites us to bring our questions, concerns, and convictions to Him. What you challenge today may become the blessing others enjoy tomorrow.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a just and righteous God who listens to the cries of Your children. Give me the wisdom to discern between Your will and mere tradition. Grant me the courage to challenge limitations that are not from You, and the humility to do so with respect and faith. Help me not to settle for less than what You have ordained for my life. May my obedience open doors for others after me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a fruitful day
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift).

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