Today’s reading: Joshua 14:1–15:63; Numbers 13:25–14:30
The Israelites continue to follow God’s instructions as they divide the land God has given them west of the Jordan River. It’s at this point that scripture once again mentions Caleb, who was one of the spies Moses initially sent into the Promised Land (Numbers 13-14). Caleb was the only returning spy to recommend that the Israelites proceed to take the land. The Israelites didn’t listen because the other spies, who were afraid, had recommended not proceeding according to God’s direction. Here are Caleb’s words found in Numbers 14:7-9:
“The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land. If the LORD delights in us, he will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey. Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their protection is removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them.”
Unfortunately, Caleb’s words went unheeded. God judged the Israelites as a result, not allowing any living at the time to enter the Promised Land, except for Caleb.
In Joshua 14, it is now forty-five years later. Caleb reminds Joshua of his faithfulness and asks for the promised inheritance given to him by God and Moses in Numbers 14. At the age of eighty-five, Caleb is still dedicated and faithful to God and tells Joshua that he is still strong and ready to drive the people out of the land before him. Caleb was truly a man following God.
What was the most important thing you learned from Caleb’s actions and words in Numbers and Joshua? What does his example show us about serving the Lord as we grow older? Tami
Source: Tami’s Blog
