But Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, “Let us go up
at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it.”
– Numbers 13:30 (ESV)

Zion Shaver has known obstacles all his life. Given up for adoption at the age of two, Shaver was raised in foster homes and bounced around from one school to another. No real family, no real home, no real future. It would have been easy to give in to the hardships and quit, but he refused. Shaver found a purpose for his life—wrestling. “Wrestling has changed my life to the point where when I come to an obstacle I instantly figure out a way to get past it and move on.” Shaver had a very successful senior season at Massillon Washington High School in Ohio. Weighing 88 pounds, he finished the season with a 33-15 record and those who watched his efforts will never forget the experience. What makes Shaver unforgettable is that he wrestles with no legs. He not only has faced his obstacles—he has conquered them.

God told Moses to send twelve men to explore the land of Canaan and come back with a scouting report on what they found. They were to find out what the land was like and whether the people living there were strong or weak. It was important to know if the cities had walls and whether the land was good for growing crops. After being in the land for forty days, the men returned and gave their report. Everyone agreed that the land was indeed good and “flowing with milk and honey.” Ten men were reluctant to move into the land. They saw only obstacles—fortified cities and giants eight feet tall. Caleb however, saw beyond the obstacles and advised Moses to go immediately and take the land. What will you do today when obstacles get in the way? Trust in God with confidence like Caleb and never forget that our God is greater than any obstacle we will ever face.

Heavenly Father, help me to see beyond the obstacles in my path. Together, we not only can face them, but we can conquer them. Amen.