Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 8.Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb
Wholeheartedly Following the Lord
Introduction:
Lesson 8 focuses on two remarkable men: Joshua and Caleb – heroes of faith who remained faithful to God in the midst of doubt and opposition. While the people often wavered, they clung steadfastly to God’s promises and demonstrated courage, obedience, and perseverance. Their lives show that genuine faith is not only expressed in words but becomes visible through consistent action. Caleb’s unwavering attitude and Joshua’s servant leadership are powerful examples for believers today. This lesson invites us to reflect on our own faithfulness. Do we follow God wholeheartedly – even when the path is difficult?
Content:
8.1 Faithfulness
Unshakable in the Truth – Caleb’s Faithfulness
Caleb was a man of extraordinary faith and courage who did not bow to majority opinion, even under great pressure. While ten of the spies lost courage and described the promised land as impossible to conquer, Caleb remained convinced that God would lead His people to victory. He stood boldly against the fear and unbelief of the majority and held firmly to God’s promise. Caleb’s faithfulness was rewarded: he was one of the few from his generation allowed to enter the promised land. His attitude shows that true faith does not require the approval of the majority but rests on the firm conviction that God keeps His word. Caleb remains a shining example of faithfulness amid doubt and resistance.
8.2 Give Me This Hill Country
Wholehearted for the Lord – Caleb’s Uncompromising Faith
Caleb’s and Joshua’s mindset was marked by deep trust in God’s promises and unshakable determination to follow His way – regardless of circumstances or popular opinion. Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly, without compromise, and preserved his faith for decades. Even in old age he firmly believed that God would give him the promised inheritance – which is why he boldly declared: “Give me this mountain!” (Joshua 14:12). He was not seeking comfort but seeking to fulfill God’s assignment. To follow the Lord wholeheartedly means to remain faithful in every situation – with a heart that is undivided. Caleb shows us that those who trust God without compromise will experience His promises becoming reality.
8.3 The Power of Example
Faith That Lives On – The Strength of a Good Example
Caleb’s faith and determination extended beyond his own life – they influenced the next generation. Othniel, his nephew and later a judge of Israel, courageously followed his example and took responsibility in faith. Caleb’s daughter Achsah also showed spiritual boldness when she asked confidently for an inheritance – in the same spirit as her father. These accounts show that lived-out faith inspires others and moves them to take God’s promises seriously in their own lives. A credible example is often more powerful than many words: it shapes hearts and guides decisions. Our task is to pass on the baton of faith through our example – so that God’s work continues through future generations.
8.4 Humble Hero
True Greatness Reveals Itself in Humility
Joshua, the great leader of Israel, humbly waited until everyone else had received their inheritance before he took his own – and that from the “remaining” land. Instead of seeking fame or wealth, he chose a simple place near the sanctuary, because God’s presence mattered more to him than outward honor. His behavior shows genuine leadership strength: he put himself last, served faithfully, and kept his focus on God. This attitude is a powerful example for us today – especially in a time when self-promotion is often valued more than character. Joshua’s humility invites us to examine our priorities: Are we seeking recognition, or closeness to God? A life devoted to God often begins with the choice to serve quietly while letting others go first.
8.5 Changed by Contemplation
Transformed by Gazing on Jesus
When we reflect on the life of Jesus and the great heroes of faith, our thinking is renewed and our character is shaped. Continually beholding Jesus – His nature, His love, His devotion – transforms us inwardly and helps us become more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). The world wants to shape us from the outside, but the Holy Spirit transforms us from the inside out through God’s power. It is up to us whose influence we allow: the pressure of the world or the work of the Spirit. Daily surrender, intentional meditation, and the decision to remain close to God make true transformation possible. In this way, our lives become a living testimony to Christ.
8.6 Summary
Faithfulness in the Midst of Testing – Joshua and Caleb as Role Models of Faith
Joshua and Caleb were men characterized by unwavering faith and uncompromising loyalty to God – even when they stood alone. While the majority of the spies spread fear, they boldly held to God’s promises. In his old age, Caleb still demanded the promised mountain, and Joshua put his own inheritance last to serve the people first. Both were role models for the next generation and demonstrated that spiritual greatness is revealed through humility, trust, and obedience. Their lives call us to place God’s word above every human opinion. Those who follow the Lord wholeheartedly will experience the fulfillment of His promises.
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