“As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.”
Context: The book of Joshua is a historical account of the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua after the death of Moses. In Joshua 14, the division of the land among the tribes of Israel is being described.
Caleb’s Request: In this verse, Caleb, one of the two spies who gave a positive report about the Promised Land forty-five years earlier (Numbers 13:30), is speaking to Joshua. He reminds Joshua of his faithfulness and commitment to God’s promises, expressing his desire to receive the land that Moses promised him as an inheritance.
Caleb’s Confidence in God: Caleb’s words reveal his strong faith in God’s faithfulness and provision. He declares that, despite his advanced age, he is still as strong as he was when Moses sent him to spy out the land. This statement demonstrates his trust in God’s ability to sustain him and empower him for the challenges ahead.
Lessons to Learn:
- Faithfulness Rewarded: Caleb’s unwavering faith in God’s promises throughout the years did not go unnoticed. God honored Caleb’s faithfulness and rewarded him with an inheritance in the Promised Land. This teaches us the importance of remaining steadfast and obedient to God, even in the face of difficulties or delays.
- Trusting in God’s Strength: Caleb’s confidence was not based on his own physical abilities or age but on God’s strength. He acknowledged that his strength was derived from God. As believers, we should recognize that our strength comes from the Lord, and we can rely on His power to equip us for whatever challenges we may face.
- God’s Faithfulness Over Time: Caleb’s testimony serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness over the years. God’s promises are sure, and He fulfills them in His perfect timing. Just as God fulfilled His promise to Caleb, He is faithful to fulfill His promises to us as well, even if we have to wait for them.
Application:
- Perseverance in Faith: Caleb’s story encourages us to persevere in our faith, holding on to God’s promises even when circumstances seem challenging or when fulfillment seems delayed. Let us trust in God’s faithfulness and remain committed to Him.
- Dependence on God’s Strength: Rather than relying solely on our own abilities, we should depend on God’s strength. When we face obstacles or battles in life, we can draw upon His power to help us overcome. Through prayer, seeking His guidance, and relying on His Spirit, we can be strengthened to face any situation.
- Reflecting God’s Faithfulness: As God has been faithful to us, we should also strive to be faithful in our relationship with Him and in our commitments to others. Let us be people of integrity and honor, reflecting God’s faithfulness in our words and actions.
Remember, Joshua 14:11 is just a small part of Caleb’s story. The entirety of his life serves as a powerful testimony of faith and trust in God.
