Read Joshua 14 -- 16
In Today's Reading:
Canaan divided among the tribes; territories given to Judah, Caleb, Ephraim, and Manasseh
The Anakim (giants) had been driven out of Hebron by Joshua, perhaps five years before this time (Joshua 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 brought him that far: 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 my 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 (14:7-8). Caleb's unshakable faith can be seen in his report as a spy: I brought him word again as it was in my heart. He spoke his convictions as he faced the opposition of the other spies and the people. He 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.
Yes, most of us will face giant "Canaanite difficulties in life as well as friends who attempt to discourage us. Surely our faith ought to exceed Caleb's, when we consider that it is Christ . . . at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation (affliction), or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword (war)? . . . Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Romans 8:34-35,37).
Word Studies:
14:9 sware = said under oath; 15:3 fetched a compass = circled around.
Christ Portrayed:
By Caleb, who wholly followed the LORD (Joshua 14:8,14). Our Savior prayed: I have glorified You on the earth: I have finished the work which You gave Me to do (John 17:4).
Prayer Needs:
Pray for: The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by a family that loves Jesus · Government Officials: Rep. Howard Coble (NC) and Rep. Karen McCarthy (MO) · Country: Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) (19 million) an island in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern tip of India · Major languages: Sinhala and Tamil · Christianity suppressed · 67% Buddhist; 15% Hindu; 8% Roman Catholic; 7% Muslim; .75% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord for wisdom and discernment (Proverbs 2:1-6).
Optional Reading: John 9
Memory Verse for the Week: John 3:16