Changed by Contemplation: Becoming Like Christ

  Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 8 -  Thursday

Changed by Contemplation

Contemplation has always been one of God’s great tools for shaping His people. When we pause and reflect on the lives of the heroes of faith—Abraham’s trust, Moses’ humility, Ruth’s loyalty, Daniel’s integrity—we are reminded of what steadfast devotion looks like in real life. Their stories inspire courage and perseverance. Yet as valuable as their examples are, Scripture points us beyond them to the One who stands above all: Jesus Christ, “the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2).

The writer of Hebrews invites us to fix our eyes on Jesus. When we behold Him—His compassion for the broken, His purity of heart, His steadfast obedience, His sacrificial love—we see not only what holiness looks like but what God desires to produce in us. This kind of contemplation is not passive; it is transformational. Paul explains that as we behold “the glory of the Lord,” we are “being transformed into the same image from glory to glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). In other words, we become like what we behold.

Romans 12:1, 2 reveals that two opposing forces are at work in every believer’s life. On one side, the world attempts to conform us—pressing us into its mold, shaping our thoughts, priorities, and desires from the outside in. On the other side, the Holy Spirit seeks to transform us—renewing our minds so that Christ’s character grows within us from the inside out. One force aims at distortion; the other aims at restoration.

How do we ensure the right process wins? By intentionally giving space for the Spirit’s transforming work. This happens when we choose daily to “present [our] bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1), surrendering our will to God’s. It happens when we allow Scripture to realign our thinking. And it happens when we fix our gaze on Jesus—His ways, His words, His heart—until what we admire in Him becomes what we desire in ourselves.

Transformation does not come by trying harder but by beholding Christ more consistently. The more we look to Him, the more the Spirit reshapes us in His likeness. The more we choose His voice over the world’s, the more clearly we discern His will—“good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2).

Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me the perfect example of what a life aligned with God looks like. Help me turn my eyes away from the pressures and distractions that seek to mold me into the world’s image. Teach me to behold You daily—Your love, Your humility, Your obedience—so that Your Spirit may transform me from the inside out. Renew my mind, reshape my desires, and make my life a reflection of Your character. Amen.

Humble Hero: First to Serve, Last to Receive

 Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 8 -  Wednesday

Humble Hero

Joshua 19:49–51 quietly but powerfully reveals the heart of a true leader. After all the land was distributed to the tribes of Israel, then—and only then—did Joshua receive his inheritance. The man who led armies, stood before enemies, interceded for the people, and bore the weight of national responsibility placed himself last. His portion was not taken by force, demanded by right, or sought for personal comfort. Instead, it was given to him by the people “according to the command of the Lord.”

The implications are profound. Joshua’s leadership model was built on humility, self-restraint, and service. In a culture where leaders often seize privilege, Joshua waited. He trusted that God would provide in God’s time, and he refused to place his needs above those he served. His attitude echoes the heart of Jesus, who taught, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” and “whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:26–28). Joshua, centuries earlier, lived out this kingdom pattern.

For us, Joshua’s example raises honest questions: Am I willing to serve without recognition? To step back so others can step forward? To trust God’s timing instead of grasping for my own gain? Jesus said, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). True greatness is not achieved through claiming rights but through surrendering them.

Joshua’s humility also teaches us to lead with patience. He did not demand reward at the beginning of his calling or even halfway through the journey. He waited until the mission was complete. Likewise, Jesus promises that our Father sees what is done in secret and will reward faithfulness in His way and His time (Matthew 6:4). Nothing done in quiet obedience is ever wasted.

When applied today, Joshua’s example challenges us to adopt an others-first posture: to listen more than we speak, to bless even when it costs us, to prioritize the good of those around us. In workplaces, families, ministries, and friendships, humility opens doors that pride closes. It frees us to lead without pressure and to serve without fear. Joshua’s life declares that those who put God and others first will never lose; they are the ones God Himself lifts up.

Prayer:
Father in heaven, thank You for the example of Joshua, a leader who lived with quiet strength and humble faith. Teach me to serve with the same spirit—to put others first, to trust Your timing, and to wait patiently for Your provision. Form in me the heart of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. Help me walk in humility today, relying on Your grace in every step. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Power of Example: Raising Up the Next Generation

Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 8 -  Tuesday

The Power of Example

The story of Caleb and his family in Joshua 15:16–19, echoed again in Judges 1:13 and Judges 3:7–11, offers a powerful window into how a life of faith shapes the next generation. Caleb was known for his courage, his wholehearted trust in God, and his willingness to claim God’s promises even when others shrank back. When Achsah and Othniel appear in the narrative, we see that same spirit rising in them. Othniel steps forward with bravery to conquer Kirjath-sepher, and Achsah boldly asks her father for blessing—first the land, then the springs. They mirror Caleb’s faith, initiative, and confidence in God’s generosity. His example is clearly forming their character long before they ever face their own challenges.

This theme of persistence is reinforced in Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1–5. Here, Jesus uses a woman’s unrelenting determination to teach us “that men always ought to pray and not lose heart.” Her example, like Caleb’s, reminds us that the faith we live out is often seen and absorbed by those who come after us. When we model perseverance in prayer, courage in difficulty, and trust in God’s promises, we create a path for others to walk.

Passing on the torch of faith to the next generation is one of the most important responsibilities God gives His people. But it is not without challenges. Young people today face cultural pressures, shifting values, deep uncertainties about the future, and often a lack of meaningful mentorship. Many feel disconnected from the spiritual experiences of older generations or unsure of their place in the church.

At the same time, the opportunities are wide and promising. Young believers are eager for authenticity, purpose, and a faith that makes a difference in the world. They have energy, creativity, technological skill, and a willingness to serve. Like Othniel, many are ready to step into leadership when they see a faith worth imitating.

So what can we do to train and empower youth for godly leadership?

We model what we want to see. We must be consistent in prayer, steady in obedience, humble in service, and bold in faith. We give them opportunities to grow, lead, and make decisions. We listen to them. We share our stories—not as perfect heroes, but as redeemed people still trusting God. We intentionally involve them in ministry, nurture their gifts, and speak life into their calling. Above all, we demonstrate the kind of faith that makes them say, like Achsah and Othniel, “I want to live like that.”

Our example will either inspire courage or reinforce complacency; it will either stir up faith or sow indifference. The next generation is watching—just as Othniel watched Caleb, and just as Jesus’ disciples watched Him pray, teach, love, and endure. What we live will always teach louder than what we say.

Bible Verses for Reflection
• Joshua 24:15 – “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
• 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
• Psalm 78:4 – “We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.”
• Titus 2:7–8 – “In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works.”
• Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go…”

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the faithful examples You place in our lives and for the calling You give us to be examples to others. Help us to live with Caleb’s courage, Achsah’s boldness, and Othniel’s readiness. Teach us to pass on our faith with humility, intentionality, and love. Strengthen the young people around us, and raise them up as leaders who honor You. May our lives point them to Jesus and inspire them to trust You fully. In Your name we pray, Amen.

The Spirit and Faith of Caleb: Give Me This Hill Country

 Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 8 -  Monday 

Give Me This Hill Country

Scripture Reading:
Joshua 14:6–14; Numbers 14:24; Numbers 32:12; Deuteronomy 1:36; Luke 6:45

---

Reflection:
The story of Caleb in Joshua 14 is a powerful testimony of faith, endurance, and wholehearted devotion. After forty-five years of waiting, Caleb stood before Joshua and reminded him of God’s promise: “Now therefore give me this hill country of which the LORD spoke in that day” (Josh. 14:12, ESV). These were not the words of a weary man clinging to the past, but of a believer whose faith had only grown stronger with time.

Caleb’s attitude, like Joshua’s, was one of bold confidence rooted in God’s Word. When others saw giants and fortified cities, Caleb saw opportunities for God to show His power. His faith was not reckless—it was resolute. He trusted God’s promises more than human perception. Scripture repeatedly describes Caleb as one who “followed the LORD fully” (Num. 14:24; Deut. 1:36). This means he obeyed with an undivided heart. There was no partial obedience, no hesitation, no compromise. Caleb’s loyalty to God was wholehearted, even when the majority around him doubted and rebelled.

To follow the Lord fully means to surrender every part of our lives to Him—our thoughts, desires, decisions, and habits. It means to align our hearts with His will, not just when it’s easy, but when it costs us something. Jesus said, “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart” (Luke 6:45). The life of faithfulness begins in the heart, where our deepest convictions take shape and guide our choices.

However, small compromises can slowly erode that faithfulness. A little dishonesty, a slight indulgence in temptation, or a moment of spiritual neglect can grow into habits that distance us from God. The enemy rarely leads us astray with one great leap—it’s usually one small step at a time. James warns, “Each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin” (James 1:14–15). Jesus also cautions, “No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24).

Following God fully requires daily choices to trust, obey, and resist compromise. Like Caleb, we must have a “different spirit” (Num. 14:24)—one that sees challenges as opportunities for God’s promises to unfold. When we refuse to settle for spiritual mediocrity, we claim the “hill country” God has set before us—the victories, blessings, and spiritual growth that come only through steadfast faith.

---

Reflection Question:
Are there any small compromises in your life that might be keeping you from fully following the Lord?

---

Prayer:
Faithful Lord,
Thank You for the example of Caleb and Joshua, who trusted You wholeheartedly and never wavered in their devotion. Teach me to follow You with that same steadfast spirit. Reveal any compromises in my life that hinder my faith, and give me the courage to surrender them to You. Strengthen my heart to trust Your promises and to face challenges with confidence in Your power. Help me to say with faith, “Give me this hill country,” knowing that victory belongs to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Faithfulness: Standing Firm

 Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 8 -  Sunday

Standing Firm in Faithfulness

Scripture Reading:
Numbers 13:6, 30–32; Joshua 14:6, 14

---

Reflection:
Caleb, from the tribe of Judah, was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the Promised Land. Alongside Joshua, he stood out as a man of unwavering faith and courage. While the other spies returned filled with fear, spreading discouragement among the Israelites, Caleb “quieted the people before Moses” and declared with confidence, “Let us go up at once and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it” (Num. 13:30).

Caleb’s place among the people of Israel was not one of leadership through position but through conviction. His faithfulness was proven when he stood firm against the tide of unbelief. Though the crowd threatened him with death (Num. 14:6–10), he refused to compromise his faith. Caleb’s courage was not rooted in self-confidence but in his trust in the promises of God. The Lord later honored him for his steadfastness, saying that Caleb “followed [Him] wholeheartedly” (Num. 32:12), and he lived to inherit the land he had once seen with eyes of faith (Josh. 14:14).

Caleb teaches us that faithfulness sometimes means standing alone. When everyone else doubts, faith calls us to hold fast to God’s Word. It takes courage to speak truth when it is unpopular, but as Caleb’s life shows, faithfulness is always rewarded by God’s presence and favor.

When we face moments where the majority’s voice contradicts our convictions, we must remember who we serve. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Galatians 1:10 asks, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?... If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Even when we stand alone, we are never truly alone, for the Lord stands with those who are faithful (2 Tim. 4:17).

Faithfulness is not proven in comfort but in conflict. Like Caleb, we are called to hold on to what is right, to speak truth in love, and to trust that God honors those who remain steadfast in His promises.

---

Reflection Question:
What helps you remain faithful to your convictions when the pressure to conform feels overwhelming?

---

Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the example of Caleb, who trusted You fully even when others did not. Help me to be faithful and courageous when I face opposition or fear. Give me strength to stand firm in Your truth, and remind me that Your promises are sure even when circumstances seem uncertain. May my heart, like Caleb’s, follow You wholeheartedly every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb

 - Sabbath School Lesson 8 - The Lessons of Faith from Joshua