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.
More: Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb
- Sabbath School Lesson 8 - The Lessons of Faith from Joshua
Sabbath School Quarterly Online: The Lessons of Faith from Joshua
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