God Delivers Caleb’s Promised Land

Joshua 14:1–15
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

The actual dividing of Canaan, “the promised land” gets underway. This was the long-awaited hour. This was the goal which Israel had so long been pressing for. The land was to be divided now, according to Moses’ instructions, even though there remained yet “very much land to be possessed” (13:1). Before crossing the Jordan, a concession had been made to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half tribe of Manasseh to occupy the land on the east side of the Jordan.  

Now the remaining distribution of Canaan was made by Joshua with the help of Eleazar the priest and a prince from each of the tribes (Num. 34:16-29). The Lord had instructed Moses that each tribe was to receive territory proportionate to its population, with the casting of lots to determine the location (Num. 26:54-56). No complaint could be made that these men were partial or prejudiced, as there was certainly to be some inequities of assignments. So, we too must accept our lot in life. Of course, there are inequities in intelligence, physical appearance, talents, personali­ty, material possessions, etc. 

Before the lots were cast Caleb reminded Joshua of the promise the Lord had made to him 45 years earlier: “To him and to his sons I will give the land on which he has set his foot because he has followed the Lord fully.” For his leadership against the unbelieving spies and people, God singled Caleb out for blessing and promised him a special reward (Num. 14:24). Caleb was one of the spiritual giants in Scripture who would not be intimidated by the giants of the enemy when there was land to be claimed. Caleb at age 85 stands before this mountain and we hear him say, “Give me this mountain” (v. 12). Just reading these words challenges my heart to do great things for God.

Application

Caleb did not let the age of 85 get in his way. I want to continually be looking at the life of Caleb and see if I can detect characteristics in his life that I can emulate. Joshua followed God’s instructions precisely in dividing the land. I believe God wants me to follow His instructions also.