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Joshua-14

From Elderly to Bold: A Devotional Study on Joshua Chapter 14​

Introduction​

In the book of Joshua, we see the Israelites continuing their conquest of the promised land under the leadership of Joshua. As the nation moves forward, we’re introduced to the story of a noble and elderly warrior, Caleb—a man who serves as an inspiration for his bravery, strength, and faithfulness. Let’s delve into Joshua chapter 14 and explore the insights Caleb's story offers us.

Section 1: Caleb’s Testimony (Joshua 14:6-14)​

Devotional Thought: Caleb speaks before the Israelite assembly. This 85-year-old faithful servant recounts his trust and confidence in God's promises. He reveals his belief that the land he'd entered 45 years prior was still worthy of conquest because God had promised it to him (Joshua 14:7). Can you hear the conviction in his voice? His story teaches us the importance of holding onto promises and maintaining faith in God’s faithfulness.

Reflection Questions:

  • Is there a land or goal you’ve set your sights on that may require patience and persistence?
  • How do you hold onto promises and maintain faith in God’s faithfulness?

Section 2: Caleb’s Tactics (Joshua 14:12)​

Devotional Thought: Caleb recommends the division of the land in which he now seeks to claim as his own. He wisely suggests that Joshua set aside the section for him as certain benefits flow toward this area (Joshua 14:12). We learn here that the wise way to tackle a task is to think of its division carefully.

Reflection Questions:

  • In situations which require division, how do you divide equally and carefully amongst those involved?
  • In which areas of your life do you need to think more carefully about division?

Section 3: Caleb’s Boldness (Joshua 14:13-14)​

Devotional Thought: Despite his advanced age, Caleb’s confidence remains unshaken. He declares boldly that he’s still eager to conquer the land, and his heart is still as strong as it was when he first saw it (Joshua 14:13). Cultural norms may dictate that old age should come with diminishing mental or physical capability, but Caleb’s story illustrates the value of self-belief and conviction.

Reflection Questions:

  • What barriers prevent you from boldly carrying out your goals?
  • How do you increase your unwavering belief and conviction in specific areas of your life?

Section 4: The Fruits of Boldness and Faithfulness (Joshua 14:15)​

Devotional Thought: Caleb demonstrates that fruitful outcomes routinely stem from boldness and faithfulness. He inherits the land, and considering its strategic location, it becomes a familiar site for future generations. We can learn here that faithfulness and boldness in the present often lead to rewarding results in the future.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you currently being faithful with certain tasks today?
  • In what ways can you act boldly and in accordance with faithfulness in your daily tasks, trusting the good outcomes to follow?

Conclusion:​

In the story of Caleb, we find the importance of faithfulness, patience, self-conviction, careful division, and boldness. As we continue our own journeys, let us carry these lessons learned by Caleb into our hearts and strive to apply them in our lives. May we hold onto promises, divide our blessings carefully, and be both faithfully patient and boldly confident, remaining ever-vigilant to the task at hand.