The tribe of Joshua wanted an easy answer to their question, “Why have you given me but one lot and one portion as an inheritance, since we are a numerous people, whom all along the Lord has blessed?” (v. 14). Instead of giving an easy answer, Joshua affirmed and challenged the tribe of Joshua: “You are indeed a numerous people, and have great power; you shall not have one lot only, but the hill country is yours…” (vv. 17-18). Joshua demonstrated a great leadership skill.

(v18) Joshua said to the tribes of Joseph “though the Canaanites have the chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out”.
-I strongly believe that Joshua said so not because “tribes of Joseph are numerous and very powerful” but God himself said to Joshua “I myself will drive them out before the Israelites” (13:6).
-Joshua didn’t believe the strength of the tribes of Joseph but God’s word. We should not depend on our own strength but God’s strength.

More land distribution and more Canaanites left among the Israelites without being driven out