Bible Study - Joshua 14
S - Then Joshua blessed him, and he gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 14 Therefore Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord, the God of Israel
Joshua 14:13–14 ESV
O - Commentary:
At age 85, when he might have asked for a quiet place to spend his last days raising some vegetables or flowers, he instead requested that he be given the same section of land that had struck fear into the hearts of the 10 spies. This was the inheritance he desired in fulfillment of God’s earlier promise. Though most older people are more apt to talk about old conflicts than to take on new ones, Caleb was ready for one more good battle. He was eager to fight the Anakites at Hebron and take that city for his possession. Caleb chose a large and foreboding task. Not that he was filled with pride in his own ability. Rather he believed God would be with him. Caleb had faith in the presence of God.
With flashing eyes and a strong voice he concluded, The Lord helping me, I will drive them out just as He said. And drive them out he did, as Joshua (15:13–19) recorded. Joshua’s response to Caleb’s request was twofold: (a) he blessed Caleb, that is, he set him apart for God’s enablement so he would be enriched and successful in his task, and (b) Joshua gave him Hebron, a statement which emphasizes that this land grant was a legal transaction
Donald K. Campbell, “Joshua,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 357–359.
A — Age is not a retirement notice from God. Caleb was 85 and asking for a mountain full of giants, not a rocking chair. What's your excuse? None. God isn't finished with you either. The inheritance He has for you was never a comfortable exit — it's the battle He built you for all along. Faith like Caleb's doesn't shrink with age. It sharpens.
R — Father, You are not done with me. Thank You for strength that doesn't expire with age. Give me Caleb's eyes to see the giants as opportunities, not obstacles. Let me fight the battles You've set before me with the same wholehearted faith he had. May every victory point back to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
