How does Othniel's courage in Joshua 15:17 inspire your faith today? A snapshot of courage “Othniel son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, captured it, and Caleb gave his daughter Acsah to him in marriage.” Setting the scene • Debir (Kiriath-sepher) was a fortified Canaanite stronghold—real stone walls, real warriors. • Caleb publicly declared, “Whoever attacks Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give him my daughter Acsah” (v. 16). • Othniel stepped forward, advanced on the city, and literally took it. No hesitation, no committee meeting, no fleece. Why his courage still matters • Courage anchored to covenant promises – Caleb’s faith in God’s Word (Numbers 14:24; Joshua 14:12) framed the challenge. Othniel trusted those same promises. • Immediate obedience – The text records no debate; he “captured it.” Courage expresses itself in action, not merely conviction (James 2:17). • Family legacy of faith – Caleb’s nephew mirrored his uncle’s spirit (Joshua 14:8). God delights to multiply resolve through generations (Psalm 78:5-7). • Foreshadowing future deliverance – Judges 3:9-10 shows Othniel later filled with the Spirit to save Israel. Private battles prepare us for public callings. • Visible reward – Acsah became his wife. God honors those who act on His Word (1 Samuel 2:30). The reward may differ today, but His principle stands (Hebrews 11:6). Scripture echoes • “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God goes with you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6) • “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.” (Joshua 1:9) • “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power.” (2 Timothy 1:7) Practical takeaways for my faith • Stand on what God has already said. Identify a clear promise and act as though it is unbreakable—because it is. • Move promptly when conviction comes. Delayed obedience drains courage. • Value small victories. Today’s “Debir” might be a conversation, a habit, a ministry opportunity. Win it, and watch God enlarge the sphere. • Cultivate contagious bravery. My obedience encourages family, friends, church—just as Caleb’s emboldened Othniel. • Expect God-honoring outcomes. They may arrive as open doors, strengthened character, or tangible blessing, but they will arrive. Othniel’s single verse reminds me that the living God still empowers ordinary believers to tackle impossible walls, inherit His promises, and leave a legacy of courage. |
    |