Read Joshua 14
Highlights:
The promised land divided among the tribes; Caleb asks for and takes Hebron; cities allotted to Judah.
Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to espy (spy) out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart. Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly (wholeheartedly) followed the Lord my God (Josh. 14:7-8).
The Anakim (giants) had been driven out of Hebron by Joshua, perhaps five years before this time (10:2-11; 11:21-22). Now they were back and in control of the territory – undoubtedly, with a much greater determination to retain the land promised to Caleb.
At Caleb’s “retirement” age of 85, he recounted to Joshua how God had faithfully brought him that far. Caleb’s unshakable faith can be seen in his report as a spy: I brought him word again as it was in mine heart (14:7). He had spoken his convictions as he faced the opposition of the other spies and the people. He had stood alone with Joshua.
We are sometimes afraid to speak about our faith when our convictions are unpopular; but the person blessed of God speaks what is in his heart on spiritual issues. Those who have their hearts fixed on the Lord and trust in His Word are not afraid to speak out or move forward to accomplish the Lord’s will regardless of what others say or do. As an example those who witnessed Paul's circumstance and were waxed confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear (Phil. 1:14).
Caleb’s courageous spirit reminds us that they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint (Isaiah 40:31). The truly blessed are faithful to God.
Yes, most of us will face giant “Canaanite” difficulties in life as well as friends who attempt to discourage us. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us (Rom 8:35).
We can be assured that when opportunities arise to witness for the Lord the Holy Spirit will give you the words to speak. And when they bring you unto the synagogue; and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you the same hour what ye ought to say (Luke 12:11-12).
Thought for Today:
Since we are greatly influenced by those with whom we associate, we need to choose friends that will lead us closer to the Lord.
Word Studies:
14:9 sware, promised under oath; 15:3 fetched a compass, circled around.
Christ Portrayed:
By Caleb, who followed the LORD (Joshua 14:8,14). Our Savior said: Lo, I come . . . to do Thy will, O God (Hebrews 10:7,9).
Prayer Suggestion: Glory in the Lord. He is Victor over Satan (Zechariah 3:2).
Optional Reading: John 9
Memory Verse for the Week: Revelation 14:11
