They swept through the land of Canaan in the power of G-d, and none could withstand them.

G-d brought victory against every stronghold, even the Anakim who so terrified the spies of Israel decades before. The Israeli army rolled right over them.

Finally, at the end, it was time to divide the land. Caleb, the other faithful spy (with Joshua), was still strong in faith and in body. He sought the challenge, believing that G-d would prevail.

Too many of us shrink back from the hard challenges, forgetting that, if undertaken in the will and strength of G-d, the harder the challenge, the more G-d receives the glory. That's what it was about, even in the conquest of Canaan, and that's what it's about in our own lives.

We can look around and see obstacles, or we can see opportunities. In our time, we are challenged in unique ways to take up G-d's banner, and embrace his power to accomplish his will. May we, too, be faithful.

Conquest

Spread across the plain
A mighty army takes the land
Strongholds collapse
Brave warriors flee
Before the power of G-d
And the courage of his people
Determined to glorify his name
And obey his commands
No matter what the cost