Old Testament
Joshua 14:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Now look — the LORD has kept me alive just as he promised, all these 45 years since he spoke those words to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness. Here I am today, 85 years old!
Compare translations
And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old.
What Joshua 14:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Caleb reflects on God's faithfulness over the years. He emphasizes that he has been kept alive for 45 years since God made a promise to him through Moses. Despite the challenges faced during the Israelites' wandering in the wilderness, Caleb's faith and endurance have allowed him to reach the age of 85. His statement highlights not only his physical survival but also his unwavering trust in God's word. Caleb serves as a reminder that God fulfills His promises, and that faith can sustain us through difficult times. His age signifies wisdom and experience, and he stands ready to claim the land promised to him, demonstrating that age does not diminish one's ability to pursue God's calling. Caleb's life exemplifies the importance of patience and perseverance in waiting for God's promises to come to fruition, encouraging others to remain steadfast in their faith.
How to apply Joshua 14:10 to your life
Caleb's story encourages us to trust in God's promises, regardless of our circumstances or age. We should remain faithful and active in pursuing our goals, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. Our faith can inspire others.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Caleb's Inheritance (Joshua 14:6–15)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joshua
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Joshua 14:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Joshua 14:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 14:10 mean?
Joshua 14:10 reflects Caleb's acknowledgment of God's faithfulness in keeping him alive for 45 years since the promise made to him. It highlights his endurance and trust in God's word despite the challenges faced during the Israelites' wandering.
What is the significance of Caleb's age in Joshua 14:10?
Caleb's age of 85 in Joshua 14:10 signifies wisdom and experience. It shows that even at an advanced age, he is still ready to pursue God's promises, demonstrating that age does not limit one's ability to act on faith.
What does the phrase 'the LORD has kept me alive' mean in Joshua 14:10?
The phrase 'the LORD has kept me alive' in Joshua 14:10 emphasizes God's faithfulness to Caleb. It indicates that God fulfilled His promise to sustain Caleb throughout the years of wandering in the wilderness.
How does Joshua 14:10 encourage faith in God's promises?
Joshua 14:10 encourages faith by showing that Caleb remained steadfast in his belief that God would fulfill His promises. His story illustrates that patience and trust in God can lead to the realization of His plans, regardless of circumstances.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.