READ: Josh. 15:6-15
Now to Caleb… he gave a share … according to the commandment of the LORD to Joshua … Kirjath Arba, which is Hebron (Arba was the father of Anak). Caleb drove out the three sons of Anak from there … – Josh. 15:13,14
Caleb was one of the twelve spies who had explored the land of Canaan from the wilderness. He and Joshua did so with faith in God’s promises. This beautiful land would be their inheritance. Caleb saw strongly fortified cities and powerful, gigantic people but knew that God would give them this land. Together with Joshua, he advised confidently entering this land with God. He is mightier than all these people. However, his advice was not heeded.
The others emphasized the strength of the opposition and said, “Do not go in there.” The majority of Israel followed their advice. God’s anger then came upon His people. None of those who were twenty years old or older survived the desert journey, except Caleb and Joshua. Caleb would even receive his own portion in the promised land.
Now, 45 years later, Caleb is 85 years old but still vigorous and courageous. He claims God’s promise and is given Hebron. He does not want to wait for others to conquer it for him, but he sees this as his own task. He demonstrates that he still trusts in God’s promises and assistance, even though the city is filled with giants.
But Caleb is not afraid; he trusts in God. He now shows his faithfulness in action. Hebron is the center of the serpent’s seed but is dismantled by faith in the woman’s seed. Faith that God works and rewards out of grace. Caleb drives out three giants.
God also enlists old people for His battles! His battle continues even as you age. But God’s promise of victory and His presence remain (Matt. 5:5, 28:20; 2 Tim. 2:12; Heb. 11:32-34, 13:5).
What can older people do in the battle?
Singing: Ps. 71:6,13