A Different Spirit

Do you have a “different spirit?”

Numbers 14:24 (ESV)
But my servant Caleb, because he has a different spirit and has followed me fully, I will bring into the land into which he went, and his descendants shall possess it.

Caleb was one of the 12 spies appointed by Moses to investigate the Promised Land and report back their discovery. Caleb and Joshua were the only two to give a positive report. The other 10 spies gave an evil report. What I find very interesting is that we never remember their names. I’ve heard no messages preached or taught about them. I’ve personally never researched the meanings of their names. They and their spirit spark no interest or intrigue within me to study them any further. However, I am inspired to study the lives of Caleb and Joshua.

Caleb’s names means, “Bold; impetuous; dog.” Caleb was a “grafted in” Israelite. And he had a different spirit. Five other times, the Bible records that Caleb “fully followed the Lord.” What was different about Caleb’s spirit?

I’m glad you asked…

Caleb’s different spirit means, “Obedient; believing; absolute trust: Thinking differently: Following with unwavering fidelity.”

WOW!

Caleb was a revolutionary! When his counterparts began to speak evil and doubt into the hearts of Israel, Caleb “silenced” them and boldly declared, no doubt shouting, “WE ARE WELL ABLE TO GO UP AND POSSESS THE PROMISES!”

Unfortunately, Caleb had to wait 40 more years before acting on his unwavering fidelity. However, when the time came, and even though Caleb was between 80-85 years old, he maintained his different spirit and demanded of Joshua, “GIVE ME MY MOUNTAIN!”

Caleb thought differently – he didn’t want the flatland; he wanted the mountain. Giants were on that mountain. The Anakims possessed the high ground. But a man with a “different spirit” doesn’t settle for second best. Those with a different spirit want the high ground! They desire the “high places” of God’s promises.

Do you have a different spirit?