Personal Initiative

Unique among the spies who explored the Promised Land, Caleb “wholly followed the Lord.” Others had the same opportunities and witnessed the same things, but only Caleb (and Joshua) fully believed God and put that belief into action. As a result, Caleb was given a special reward. This reward was based on his personal initiative: The more places his feet tread upon, the more he would inherit. It was up to him to determine where he walked. Whether a few steps or many—the choice was his.

This provides an important picture of the way God blesses us. To some extent, we all receive the same gift: None of us is saved by works; we are saved by grace, apart from anything we do. However, as Caleb discovered, we also may receive special rewards based on what we do.

For example, we Reap what we Sow (Galatians 6:7). Many of the blessings we receive in life are in direct relationship to what we’ve done with our time, talent, and treasure. This is true of our finances, our health, our relationships, and even our spiritual lives. God gives us resources and the opportunities to use them. He has given us His Spirit and His Word. But we must decide what we will do.

Today, think about your life. What are you doing with your time, talent, and treasure? Where are you Sowing your Seeds? What are your priorities? Have you compromised with the world? Or do you have a radical faith, totally trusting God, completely believing in His Word?

Make sure that you give God first place. Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness. Sow abundantly into His Kingdom.