Lots of people are involved but only a few will be thanked by name.
Reference: v. 31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” (TNIV Bible)
Explore: Have you ever been singled out in a speech before? When someone gets up to give a speech at a wedding there are often many people to thank. There are friends and family who have traveled, helpers who have worked to make the event run smoothly and attendants who have helped on the day. It’s nice to be a part of the people who have contributed to the day but you know that you’ve made a big impression if you are named specifically. The bride and groom will thank everyone for attending but they’ll specifically mention their friend James who has traveled the furthest. Many of the family may have assisted with the decorations but it’s Aunt Sylvia who made the cake that will get a separate mention. Lots of people are involved but only a few will be thanked by name.
Application: When Moses sent out 12 spies into enemy territory they were all mentioned by name. However, when they came back only 2 of the spies had the courage to obey God’s plan for the Israelites. Once that becomes clear the two spies are continually mentioned by name – Caleb and Joshua – whereas the other 10 are only mentioned as ‘the men’. As I go through life I would like to live in such a way that I am mentioned by name. Not so I can feel special and more important but I’d like to be the one that goes the extra mile, stands up for what I believe in and makes a positive difference to other people. They are the type of people whose names are remembered.
Prayer: Lord, may I live not to receive glory but in such a way that you are glorified by my action. Amen.
Do you live in such a way that you would be individually named?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.