Even some of the greatest heroes need help. Whether they’re protecting Gotham City, taking on The Empire, or destroying the one ring, heroes sometimes need a sidekick. Maybe we feel like we are in the shadows of the “heroes” around us or that our role is not as important as others. But if you think about it, without their sidekicks, most heroes wouldn’t have been as successful. Each and every one of us has our own role to play.
…each of us should be using the unique gifts and talents that God has given us
Let’s talk about Caleb. He is probably best known as Joshua’s ‘super sidekick.’ When ten other scouts looked at the Promised Land and said, “It’s impossible for us to take this land,” Caleb was the one guy who stood with Joshua and said, “We can do it! Let’s take this territory!”
Today, you don’t hear much about Caleb. Joshua’s ‘as for me and my house’ speech is what is often quoted in sermons featuring this dynamic duo. But the Bible says some really cool things about Caleb, the “let’s go for it!” sidekick.
Take a look at Joshua 14:6-12 to see what Caleb said 45 years after the Promised Land scouting trip. (These are just a few of the things I love about Caleb!)
Caleb was gutsy. He stood by his friend Joshua and stood up for what he believed in, even when it wasn’t popular.
Caleb fully trusted in God. He continually believed God’s promises, even when it took a long time to see them (Hello, 45 years!).
Caleb was strong. He was a tough guy in his own right (how many 85 year old warriors do you know?). But Caleb’s strength wasn’t just physical; he was strong in courage and in character.
Does this sound like a guy who was upset with being a sidekick? Caleb was completely content in God’s plan for his life. We never heard any grumbling from him about how he seemingly lived in Joshua’s shadow. Caleb was the first person to speak up about God fulfilling His promises! And because he trusted in God completely, he was rewarded greatly!
As Christians, we are a body made up of many members. In order for the body of Christ to function properly, each of us should be using the unique gifts and talents that God has given us (Matthew 25:14-30, John 15:1-11). How can you do that? What gifts do you feel God may be stirring up in you?
Confession for today: “Lord, it is my prayer that I will be the best sidekick I can be for Your Kingdom! I know that You are counting on me to do my part. Whatever my role may be, I know that it is important, because You purposed it for me. You gifted me to perform it, blessed me with talents to share, and now You are mobilizing me to serve and fulfill my calling! Help me to play my part in the body of Christ!”
Love and nuggs,
Amanda
