Joshua 14:6–12 ‘I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out…’ (v11)
What an extraordinary person Caleb is! He is strong, even at eighty-five years of age (v10), describing himself as ‘just as vigorous’ (v11) as when he was younger!
He was one of the spies who investigated the land of Canaan, and along with Joshua, brought a positive report – unlike the others, which he seems keen to remind Joshua (vv7–9).
Interesting too that he talks about Moses, who had described Caleb as ‘wholehearted’ in the way he has followed the Lord.
What a commendation! In fact, we read in Numbers 14:24 that it is the Lord Himself who has commended Caleb; Caleb has a ‘different spirit’. I wonder if we can say the same of ourselves?
Caleb was walking with God in a dynamic way, even in the autumn of his life. Every season has its benefits and challenges.
But autumn is a time of great fruitfulness and harvest. In John 15:2 Jesus speaks of His followers bearing fruit, and that as branches of the vine, the Father will prune them.
Disciples of Jesus can therefore expect ‘pruning’ in order to bear the fruit Jesus speaks of. But the fruit will come, as a result of our relying more and more on the Spirit of God; after all, it is His fruit in us that we are bearing.
Caleb was bearing fruit even in his old age. This man, who had a spirit that was different from the rest, who wholeheartedly served the Lord, was surely a great witness to those who knew him, as well as encouraging us today. How wholehearted are we, in following Jesus, whatever the season of our life?
A Prayer To Make:
‘Father, I want to be known as someone who has a different spirit, just like Caleb. I want to be vigorous in my pursuit of You, Lord. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
Be honest with yourself. Are there areas where you know you are half-hearted about the things of God? What can you do to walk more wholeheartedly before the Lord?
Scripture To Consider:
Num. 14:1–45; Deut. 1:19–36; John 15:1–17; Gal. 5:13–26
