Sometimes I feel old, a bit useless, and wondering what to do next that will seem even remotely meaningful. But then, I have a “Caleb moment.”

It’s at those times when the Caleb’s victory at 80 years of age is truly inspiring. Joshua 14:14 says that he was given Hebron in the hill country of the Promised Land because “he followed the LORD God of Israel fully.” What inspires me is that he was 80 years old when he led the conquest of God’s spiritual enemies – fighting uphill! Any soldier knows that’s not easy. Any old soldier thinks that’s just crazy!

And yet, this morning is one of those mornings when sitting on the sideline just isn’t good enough for me either. I cannot stop from battling uphill just because I don’t believe I’m capable, don’t feel energized, don’t feel glad to see another day of challenge, or don’t have confidence of more victories than defeats.

So, I’m remembering this morning that old soldiers are sometimes called into battle, and they go on to victory in the strength of the Lord. Today seems to be one of those days for me when the calling to do so is loud and clear and faith is rising to the task.

When does an old soldier go to battle?

• When called up by the Lord of Hosts
• When special skills are needed
• When the battle requires maximum effort
• When the battle is pressed on the home front
• When the young ones are not available, or otherwise engaged

O Lord, as I and the other gray hairs enter the spiritual battles before us today, we pray with the Psalmist that You will “Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless.” We remember that WITH You “we will gain the victory,” and that YOU “will trample down our enemies.” (Psalm 60:11-12)

– David

Read: Joshua 13:1-14:15, Luke 18:1-17, Psalm 85:1-13, Proverbs 13:7-8