Introduction
Study today centers on Caleb. Not popular name today, but should be. Caleb is special man of OT. OT occasion deserves introduction, unfamiliar, uncharted territory in our Bible Study. Generally not known, not appreciated, not applied. Only know a few portions, and will see one of those in today's context, but want to work with larger section to set stage for our text. Problem in OT study is easy to ignore Jesus Christ because he is in explicit, but implicit. These point to him, are schoolmaster to lead us to him. Must not forget him, but rather see principles which are fulfilled in him.
People With a Different Spirit
Ultimate answer may appear in Josh. 14:6ff. Suggest keys to Caleb's success. What does it mean to fully follow, with a different spirit? How will others know we have different spirit?
14:10--People with this different spirit have a God to live for.
Caleb knew his blessings, long life, destiny, strength were from God. He was dependent upon God. He was living for God. Who/what is your God? Power, prestige, prominence, position, possessions, religion, self? Living for God means living for his purposes. Life without purpose is generally wasted. No reason for being, no purpose for living. Little accomplished in such a life. Spiritual mountains come from trust in God. Living for God in this way is the only way to die. Everyone is living/dying for some cause. What is our purpose, who is our God?
14:10--People with this different spirit have a faith to live by.
Faith not empty commodity, faith only meaningful, powerful when faith is in right object. Walk by faith, not by sight. Is powerful testimony to others. Different spirit than spirit of world. Just live by faith, arising from faith, moving toward greater faith. God is faithful, God fulfills his promises. This kind of faith is parallel to allegiance, loyalty. Trust, relationship.
14:10--People of a different spirit have a future to live toward.
Give me God's promises for my life and it will be enough. Can live with myself if God reigns.
Give me this mountain. Give us this city, give us this world, give us our families, give us our friends, our neighbors, our loved ones. If we want such a mountain, must rely on God's strength and guidance.
Conclusion
People of a different spirit. Still, I wonder....
What does God see when he looks at me? at you? at us? If you wish to be such a person, why not tell God so right now in prayer. If your life prohibits such a commitment, why not cast off your burdens by prayer shared with others Christians. If you have never claimed God as your God, never attempted life living for God, living by faith, living toward the future, why not depend upon Jesus Christ for forgiveness, being immersed into his body and life... as we stand and sing.