Key Verse: v. 12 - "Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day. You, yourself, heard that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the Lord helping me, I will drive them out, just as He said." (NIV)

What a testimony to Caleb's faith in that he wants to go back to the very same mountain, Mt. Hebron, the 12 spies had explored 45 years earlier (Numbers 13). Ten of the spies, with the exception of Joshua, had convinced the people giants would destroy them. Caleb's declaration, "The Lord promised it to me ... and with the Lord's help I will drive them out," is a monumental milestone in the history of Israel.

We can be assured, God will not lead us anywhere without enabling us to do the job for which he has called us, and will go before us to insure success. So, first, we need to be certain we are following his leading, then be bold in stepping out in faith for him.

Lord, guide me with your Spirit and give me boldness and wisdom today as I walk in you. Help me step out in an area of faith for which I have had timidity and fear, because I know you give me a Spirit of power, love and a sound mind.

Robin Buchanan, Princeton, W.Va.