Anchor My Faith

Inheritance, Humility, Prayer, and Wisdom

Old Testament Reading

Joshua 15:1–63 — The Allotment of Judah

Overview:
This passage details the territorial inheritance given to the tribe of Judah, outlining its boundaries, cities, and notable regions. It highlights the fulfillment of God’s promise to give Israel the land, emphasizing order and divine faithfulness. The account also includes Caleb’s inheritance and his continued faith and strength, as well as the incomplete conquest of Jerusalem, where the Jebusites remained. The chapter underscores both God’s provision and Israel’s partial obedience.

Theological Themes:
• God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises
• Inheritance as a gift from God
• The consequences of incomplete obedience

Key Verse:
Joshua 15:14 – “And Caleb drove out from there the three sons of Anak: Sheshai and Ahiman and Talmai, the descendants of Anak.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. What does Judah’s inheritance reveal about God’s character?
   Answer: It demonstrates God’s faithfulness and precision in fulfilling His promises to His people.
2. What is the significance of Caleb’s role in this chapter?
   Answer: Caleb exemplifies enduring faith and obedience, showing trust in God even in advanced age.
3. What does the presence of the Jebusites in Jerusalem teach us?
   Answer: It reveals the consequences of incomplete obedience and the ongoing challenges that result from it.

New Testament Reading

Luke 18:18–43 — The Rich Ruler and the Healing of the Blind Beggar

Overview:
This passage contrasts two individuals: a wealthy ruler who struggles to surrender his possessions to follow Jesus, and a blind beggar who persistently cries out in faith for mercy. Jesus teaches that eternal life requires wholehearted trust in God rather than reliance on riches. The rich ruler walks away sorrowful, while the blind man receives both physical sight and spiritual restoration. The passage emphasizes humility, faith, and the cost of discipleship.

Theological Themes:
• The cost of discipleship
• The danger of trusting in wealth
• Faith and persistence in seeking Jesus

Key Verse:
Luke 18:27 – “But He said, ‘The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.’”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. Why did the rich ruler struggle to follow Jesus?
   Answer: He was unwilling to surrender his wealth, revealing that his trust was in possessions rather than God.
2. What sets the blind beggar apart in this passage?
   Answer: His persistent faith and recognition of Jesus as the Son of David demonstrate humility and trust.
3. What does Jesus teach about salvation in this passage?
   Answer: Salvation is humanly impossible but made possible through God’s power and grace.

Psalms Reading

Psalm 86:1–17 — A Prayer for Mercy and Strength

Overview:
In this psalm, David cries out to God for mercy, protection, and strength in the midst of distress. He acknowledges God’s goodness, readiness to forgive, and unmatched greatness among all gods. The psalm reflects deep dependence on God, combining petition with praise. David seeks not only deliverance but also a united heart that fears God’s name, expressing a desire for both external help and internal transformation.

Theological Themes:
• God’s mercy and readiness to forgive
• Dependence on God in times of trouble
• The desire for a devoted and unified heart

Key Verse:
Psalm 86:11 – “Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. What does David’s prayer reveal about God’s character?
   Answer: It reveals that God is merciful, gracious, and ready to forgive those who call on Him.
2. What does it mean to have a “united heart”?
   Answer: It means having undivided devotion to God, free from competing loyalties.
3. How does this psalm model prayer for believers?
   Answer: It models a balance of honest petition, trust in God’s character, and praise.

Proverbs Reading

Proverbs 13:9–10 — The Contrast Between Wisdom and Pride

Overview:
These proverbs present a contrast between the righteous and the wicked, highlighting the enduring nature of righteousness and the fleeting nature of wickedness. The imagery of light and lamp emphasizes the stability and joy of the righteous life versus the eventual downfall of the wicked. Additionally, pride is identified as a source of conflict, while wisdom is found in humility and receiving counsel. Together, these verses emphasize the value of wise living rooted in humility.

Theological Themes:
• The enduring nature of righteousness
• The destructive power of pride
• The value of humility and wise counsel

Key Verse:
Proverbs 13:10 – “By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. What does the imagery of light and lamp represent?
   Answer: It represents the flourishing life of the righteous versus the fading influence of the wicked.
2. How does pride lead to conflict?
   Answer: Pride resists correction and elevates self, which creates tension and division with others.
3. How can a person grow in wisdom according to this passage?
   Answer: By seeking and listening to wise counsel with humility.