March 18
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 (see 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.
Caleb boldly proclaimed: I wholly followed the LORD my God. His decisions and actions were unaffected by what others said or did. The loyal few 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.
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 remain faithful to God.
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, inasmuch as Christ . . . at the right hand of God . . . makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, 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 = promised 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 BPM Staff: Pam Pendergrast · Government Official: Rep. Howard Coble (NC) · Country: Portugal (10 million) in western Europe · Major language: Portuguese · Limited religious freedom · 90% Roman Catholic; .75% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Pray and praise God that the answers to your prayers are granted through the grace of God (Isaiah 30:19).
Optional Reading: John 9
Memory Verse for the Week: Colossians 2:9