Give Me the Hill Country

My Rebecca, grandgirl, and grandboy
"Sand Mountain"

"So give me this hill country that God promised me. You yourself heard the report, that the [giants] were there with their great fortress cities..." (Joshua 14:12)

Next week, I'm speaking at a retirement community. My children's books opened that door, but it's encouragement that I hope and pray to leave behind.

In the Old Testament book of Joshua, 85-year-old Caleb tells his story:

"I was 40 years old when Moses the servant of God sent me from Kadesh Barnea to spy out the land. And I brought back an honest and accurate report. My companions who went with me discouraged the people, but I stuck to my guns, totally with God, my God. 

That was the day that Moses solemnly promised, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance, you and your children's, forever. Yes, you have lived totally for God.' 

Now look at me: God has kept me alive, as He promised. It is now 45 years since God spoke this word to Moses, years in which Israel wandered in the wilderness. And here I am today, 85 years old! I'm still as strong as I was the day Moses sent me out. I'm as strong as ever in battle, whether coming or going. So give me the hill country that God promised me. You yourself heard the report, that the Anakim were there with their great fortress cities. If God goes with me, I will drive them out, just as God said." (Joshua 14:6-12 The Message)

And God and Caleb did.

Think you're over the hill, beloved? If God is with you, you can still take a mountain and its giants! Don't retire from life until you expire to heaven!!!