This verse reminds us that faith in God’s good and generous plan dispels fear and emboldens action.
In this verse, Joshua (the son of Nun, likely born in Egypt prior to Israel’s exodus around 1446 BC) and Caleb (the son of Jephunneh) courageously address the assembled Israelites. They proclaim, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land.” (v.7) Here, the congregation is poised on the cusp of entering Canaan, often referred to as the Promised Land—a region promised first to Abraham (Genesis 15:18) and now waiting for the descendants of Israel to claim it. Their statement reflects a deep conviction that despite the imposing cities and inhabitants, the LORD’s assurance stands firm. While the nation struggles with fear, Joshua and Caleb’s role is to bolster Israel’s courage and reaffirm God’s faithfulness.
Their message, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land,” (v.7) underscores the goodness of God’s provision. It highlights that this territory is not merely good in human terms but rather “exceedingly” good—overflowing with potential and blessings. The phrase further testifies to God’s integrity in keeping His covenant, reminding the Israelites that the Suzerain (Ruler) God who delivered them from bondage in Egypt would also provide a homeland flowing with resources and opportunities (Exodus 3:8). Throughout the biblical narrative, Moses had been preparing the people for life in this land, often cautioning them to trust the LORD’s promises rather than succumb to fear or doubt.
From a broader biblical perspective, Joshua would later become Israel’s leader following Moses’ death, faithfully guiding the people into this Promised Land (Joshua 1:1). Jesus references the importance of trusting in God’s promises in the New Testament as well, telling His followers, “Do not let your heart be troubled” (John 14:1), linking the act of faithful reliance upon God’s promises to a spiritual inheritance. Like Joshua and Caleb’s exhortation, believers today are reminded that God’s plans are trustworthy, calling them to face formidable challenges with courage, anchored in His faithfulness.
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Numbers 14:7 meaning
In this verse, Joshua (the son of Nun, likely born in Egypt prior to Israel’s exodus around 1446 BC) and Caleb (the son of Jephunneh) courageously address the assembled Israelites. They proclaim, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land.” (v.7) Here, the congregation is poised on the cusp of entering Canaan, often referred to as the Promised Land—a region promised first to Abraham (Genesis 15:18) and now waiting for the descendants of Israel to claim it. Their statement reflects a deep conviction that despite the imposing cities and inhabitants, the LORD’s assurance stands firm. While the nation struggles with fear, Joshua and Caleb’s role is to bolster Israel’s courage and reaffirm God’s faithfulness.
Their message, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land,” (v.7) underscores the goodness of God’s provision. It highlights that this territory is not merely good in human terms but rather “exceedingly” good—overflowing with potential and blessings. The phrase further testifies to God’s integrity in keeping His covenant, reminding the Israelites that the Suzerain (Ruler) God who delivered them from bondage in Egypt would also provide a homeland flowing with resources and opportunities (Exodus 3:8). Throughout the biblical narrative, Moses had been preparing the people for life in this land, often cautioning them to trust the LORD’s promises rather than succumb to fear or doubt.
From a broader biblical perspective, Joshua would later become Israel’s leader following Moses’ death, faithfully guiding the people into this Promised Land (Joshua 1:1). Jesus references the importance of trusting in God’s promises in the New Testament as well, telling His followers, “Do not let your heart be troubled” (John 14:1), linking the act of faithful reliance upon God’s promises to a spiritual inheritance. Like Joshua and Caleb’s exhortation, believers today are reminded that God’s plans are trustworthy, calling them to face formidable challenges with courage, anchored in His faithfulness.