How does Judges 1:14 encourage us to pursue God's promises with confidence? Setting the Scene – Caleb, Acsah, and a Bold Request Caleb had just rewarded Othniel with his daughter Acsah after the capture of Kiriath-sepher. Right away, Acsah steps into the story with striking initiative. Key Verse – Judges 1:14 “One day when she came to Othniel, she urged him to ask her father for a field. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, ‘What do you desire?’” Observing Acsah’s Confidence • She knows her inheritance is tied to her father’s promise and God’s larger promise to Israel (Joshua 14:9). • She does not settle for the bare minimum—desert land without water would be useless—so she presses for the additional springs (v. 15). • She involves her husband but is also willing to speak directly herself. The text shows no hesitation or fear. What This Teaches About Pursuing God’s Promises • God welcomes bold, faith-filled asking. Compare Matthew 7:7: “Ask and it will be given to you.” • Confidence rests on covenant reality, not personal entitlement. Caleb’s family owned the land because God had spoken (Numbers 14:24). Likewise, believers “inherit the promises through faith and patience” (Hebrews 6:12). • Acsah’s request is specific (a field, then springs). Specific faith honors God’s detailed faithfulness (Psalm 37:23). • The father gladly responds. Caleb mirrors the Father in heaven who gives “good gifts to those who ask Him” (Matthew 7:11). • Pursuit involves action: Acsah dismounts, Othniel captures the city, Caleb relinquishes property. Faith is never passive (James 2:22). Practical Takeaways for Today • Anchor every request in a clear promise of Scripture (2 Peter 1:4). • Approach God with family intimacy—He invites us to “come boldly to the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16). • Ask specifically instead of vaguely; then watch for specific answers. • Expect abundance. Caleb gives both upper and lower springs; God “is able to do immeasurably more” (Ephesians 3:20). • Act on what you already know God has granted, just as Acsah walked onto her allotted land before she asked for water. |
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