READ JOSHUA 14
GO DEEPER
Caleb is known for his steadfast obedience. This passage sheds light on Caleb's background as one of the individuals selected by Moses to explore Canaan. Out of the 12 scouts, 10 advised against entering due to fear of the inhabitants. However, Caleb and Joshua expressed faith that the Lord would grant them triumph over the Canaanites, despite the challenges they foresaw.
Due to his loyal obedience, Caleb is consistently recognized as someone who earnestly followed the Lord. Caleb describes himself in this way in verse 8 as he makes a plea. We read, "Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God." In verse 9, Moses mentioned him, "And Moses sware on that day, saying, Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children's for ever, because thou hast wholly followed the LORD my God." When we reflect on the beginning of Caleb's journey, we find in Numbers 14:24 that God Himself spoke of Caleb, "But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it."
Caleb remained unaffected by the doubts and anxieties of those around him and refused to let the challenges he encountered sway his conviction in God's provision. According to the Scriptures, Caleb demonstrated unwavering trust in God and His promises. He displayed steadfastness and exercised patience. Even though it had been approximately 45 years since the promise of the land was made to Caleb, it is inspiring to note that God eventually rewarded him for his patience and faithfulness. Let us aspire to emulate Caleb's faithfulness to God even in the face of seemingly overwhelming circumstances and to patiently await the timing of the Lord.
QUESTIONS
1.
How do you think others perceive your primary devotion in life when they observe you?
2. On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you evaluate your level of patience in waiting for the Lord’s perfect timing (1 indicating low patience and 5 indicating high patience)?
3. What characteristics of Caleb do you find most impressive or commendable?