The story of Joshua and Caleb offers timeless principles of faith, courage, and resilience that are essential for individuals and faith communities – the Local Church. These two leaders displayed remarkable qualities that set them apart, especially when they stood against popular opinions to follow God’s leadership and direction. Let’s explore six principles we can draw from Joshua and Caleb’s story and see how these principles can be applied in our lives, careers, families and churches.
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, it came to pass that the LORD spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, saying: 2 "Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the River Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. - Joshua 1:1-6 NKJV
Additional reference: Numbers 13 and 14.
Principles 1. Faith Over Fear
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Joshua and Caleb saw the same giants and fortified cities as the other spies, but their perspectives differed. Instead of focusing on obstacles, they focused on God’s promises and His ability to deliver. While others let fear paralyse them, Joshua and Caleb trusted God’s word.
Application in the Church: The church can face fears of declining attendance, financial struggles, or societal pressures. Leaders and members alike must choose faith over fear, trusting that God will provide and protect them as they follow His lead.
Application in Personal Life: Challenges can seem overwhelming in our careers and family lives. Choosing faith over fear allows us to take bold steps, even when the future seems uncertain. Faith empowers us to keep moving toward our goals, knowing God is with us.
Principle 2. Focus on God’s Promises
"8 If the LORD delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land which flows with milk and honey.' 9 Only do not rebel against the LORD, nor fear the people of the land, for they are our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the LORD is with us. Do not fear them." - Numbers 14:8-9
While ten spies were fixated on the giants, Joshua and Caleb remembered God’s promise to give them the land. They anchored their actions in this divine assurance, allowing them to see beyond immediate challenges.
Application in the Church: It’s easy to get distracted by immediate concerns or pressures. By focusing on God’s promises in Scripture—His provision, presence, and guidance—the church can remain steadfast and forward-moving, confident in His plan.
Application in Personal Life: For individuals, focusing on God’s promises can provide a foundation during difficult times. Whether facing a career setback, family tension, or personal struggles, remembering His promises can give us peace and resilience. For example, God promises never to leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), a reassurance we can cling to in any storm.
Principle 3. A Vision and Kingdom Mindset
"18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." Proverbs 29:18 NKJV
“18 If people can’t see what God is doing,they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed.” MSG
Joshua and Caleb had a vision of what God intended for Israel. They saw the Promised Land not as a place of defeat but as a future home where God’s people would thrive. Their perspective was Kingdom-centered, seeing obstacles as opportunities for God’s glory to shine.
Application in the Church: Churches today benefit from leaders with a Kingdom mindset—leaders who focus on advancing God’s purposes rather than being confined by immediate challenges. With a clear vision for spreading Kingdom insights, churches can move forward in faith, investing in community outreach, missions, and discipleship even when resources seem limited.
Application in Personal Life: Having a Kingdom mindset shifts our focus from merely surviving to making an impact for God’s glory. In careers, it can mean using our skills to serve others. In families, it might involve cultivating a household where God’s love and grace are evident. A Kingdom mindset helps us see our lives as part of a larger story that God is writing.
Principle 4. The Power of a Faithful Minority
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." — Matthew 18:20
Joshua and Caleb were only two among twelve spies who chose to believe in God’s promises. Their faith, though in the minority, had the power to lead Israel forward. This shows that even a small group of committed believers can significantly influence.
Application in the Church: A small group of passionate, faith-filled believers can often ignite transformation within a church community. Their enthusiasm and commitment can inspire others and spark a movement within the church when they remain faithful and dedicated.
Application in Personal Life: In our workplaces or families, we may only stand up for what we believe in. Like Joshua and Caleb, a small act of faith or integrity can influence others around us, creating a positive ripple effect that impacts our environment.
Principle 5. Fostering a Positive Mindset
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." — Deuteronomy 31:6
The majority of the spies spread a negative report, instilling fear and doubt among the Israelites. Joshua and Caleb, however, chose to counter this negativity by affirming God’s power. Their courage helped calm the people and reminded them of God’s faithfulness.
What you focus on becomes your master. If you focus on all the problems, negative voices, and what is not going right, that’s all you will see. The problem is, if that is all you see, that is all you will see and experience.
Application in the Church: In times of difficulty, churches can sometimes be surrounded by negativity—criticism from within or discouragement from external sources. By fostering an environment of encouragement and focusing on God’s faithfulness, church leaders can help members overcome fear and remain united in purpose.
Application in Personal Life: In our individual lives, fear and negativity can quickly spread, impacting our mental and emotional well-being. Choosing to counteract negativity with positive affirmations of God’s faithfulness can strengthen our resilience. Creating a positive, faith-filled family environment helps build a culture of encouragement and trust in God’s provision.
Principle 6. Conviction over popularity
"The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" — Psalm 27:1
Joshua and Caleb displayed remarkable courage, standing firm in their faith even when it went against the majority. Their leadership was rooted in conviction rather than popularity, demonstrating a commitment to God’s truth.
Application in the Church: The church needs courageous leaders who stand firm on biblical principles, even when societal pressures encourage compromise. Such leadership inspires confidence in the congregation and sets an example of unwavering faith in God’s word.
Application in Personal Life: Whether leading a family, a team at work, or just guiding oneself, courageous leadership rooted in conviction is essential. Standing firm on values and truth, even when unpopular, builds integrity and inspires others to follow a path of faith and courage.
Conclusion
The principles demonstrated by Joshua and Caleb—faith over fear, a focus on God’s promises, a Kingdom mindset, the power of a faithful minority, overcoming negativity, and courageous leadership—are as relevant today as they were in ancient Israel. When applied corporately in the church, these principles can strengthen the body and build a culture of faith and resilience. In our personal lives, careers, and families, these values help us to navigate challenges, inspire those around us, and ultimately, live out God’s calling with confidence and purpose.
The story of Joshua and Caleb reminds us that God is faithful and His promises are sure. By aligning our lives with these principles, we can face life’s challenges with courage, move forward in faith, and make a lasting impact in every sphere we touch.
This blog was inspired by Ps Shaun’s message at Faith Legacy Believers Church on the 223rd of November, 2024. You can watch the full message below.
Thanks Ps Shaun, I love this teaching if Courage and tenacity in the face of adversity. Stand strong, God has a plan and purpose for each of us.
God bless you and your family.