In what ways can we apply Achsah's initiative to our spiritual growth? The Moment in the Text Judges 1:14 – 15: “One day when she came, she urged Othniel to ask her father for a field. And as she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, ‘What can I do for you?’ ‘Give me a blessing,’ she replied. ‘Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water.’ So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs.” Why Her Initiative Matters – Achsah recognizes her need (dry land needs water). – She believes her father’s generosity. – She speaks up immediately and specifically. – She receives more than she asked: two sets of springs. New-Covenant Parallels – Matthew 7:7 – 8 “Ask… seek… knock” – James 4:2 “You do not have because you do not ask God.” – Hebrews 4:16 “Approach the throne of grace with confidence.” – John 7:37 – 38 “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink… streams of living water will flow.” God invites the same bold, trusting approach Achsah modeled. Ways to Apply Achsah’s Initiative to Spiritual Growth 1. Recognize Real Need – Dry ground pictures the soul apart from ongoing fellowship (Psalm 63:1). – Inventory areas that feel barren: prayer life, witness, family relationships. 2. Believe the Father’s Generosity – Romans 8:32 “He… graciously gives us all things.” – Replace reluctant prayers with confident expectation of His goodness. 3. Ask Specifically – Achsah does not say, “Whatever you think is best.” She names “springs of water.” – Frame petitions in concrete language—“Lord, open doors for me to disciple one younger believer,” rather than vague “help me grow.” 4. Act Promptly – She dismounts and requests immediately. – When the Spirit stirs a desire for growth, respond while conviction is fresh. 5. Seek More than Minimum – She already had land; she asked for the resources to flourish in it. – Refuse complacency. Pray for depth, maturity, and fruit beyond initial salvation. 6. Expect Abundant Provision – Caleb grants upper and lower springs: supply for every elevation of the property. – Philippians 4:19 promises provision “according to His riches in glory.” Practical Steps This Week – Start each morning by identifying one “dry patch” and petitioning God for a corresponding “spring.” – Keep a list of answered prayers, noting when God gives more than requested. – Memorize Hebrews 4:16; quote it aloud before each prayer time. – Share with a trusted believer one area where you will intentionally ask for God’s fullness, inviting accountability. Springs for Today’s Pilgrims The Father still loves to turn arid soil into well-watered gardens (Isaiah 58:11). Imitate Achsah’s faith: come, ask, and receive until living water overflows to a thirsty world. |
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