Bible Society of South Africa
Xanthe Hancox

Friendship – Day 7

Joshua and Caleb – friends in deed

Bible text(s)

Numbers 14

6And Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, two of the spies, tore their clothes in sorrow 7and said to the people, “The land we explored is an excellent land. 8If the LORD is pleased with us, he will take us there and give us that rich and fertile land. 9Do not rebel against the LORD and don't be afraid of the people who live there. We will conquer them easily. The LORD is with us and has defeated the gods who protected them; so don't be afraid.”

Numbers 14:6-9GNBOpen in Bible reader

Numbers 13

30Caleb silenced the people who were complaining against Moses, and said, “We should attack now and take the land; we are strong enough to conquer it.”

Numbers 13:30GNBOpen in Bible reader

Do you recall the story of the 12 spies who gave their report of the Promised Land to the people of Israel? They all agreed on the facts of the report; it truly was the land of milk and honey. However, there was great disagreement on the interpretation and what ought to be Israel’s response.

Ten of them gave a majority report. They said it could not be done — the enemy was too numerous. Two faithful men of courage thought differently. Caleb spoke for them saying, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.”(Numbers 13:30) It took great courage to say what they said and to do what they did. As a result, these two men were bound together in a friendship based upon conviction.

When you and another are the only ones in your company who are doing right, the only ones at your school to stand for Jesus Christ, the only individuals in your family or neighbourhood who have faith, it can glue you together like Caleb and Joshua.

Joshua and Caleb were friends indeed and friends in deed. It was a friendship tested by time and trials, but a friendship expressed in commitment and deeds. Perhaps, you are blessed with such a friend as Caleb. If so, find a way today not only to say how much you appreciate this friend, but to show it as well.

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