Moshe called Hoshea son of Nun, "Yehoshua." (13:16) Moshe gave Yehoshua an extra letter to his name as a blessing to protect him from the possible influence of the other spies (Rashi). Sometimes it's important to be fair. Sometimes it's important to give someone a little extra if that is what he needs. Moshe felt that Yehoshua needed extra protection, so he gave it to him. And that added protection helped him not be swayed by the others. This was ultimately for the benefit of the whole nation since Yehoshua led them into Israel 40 years later. So the chesed Moshe did for Yehoshua was actually chesed that benefited the entire nation. Often, an extra encouraging word, an extra few dollars, an extra smile, an extra blessing can go a long way and bring unexpected dividends to others. We must always be willing to give just a bit extra whenever possible, especially to those whom we perceive can use it most. (Daily dose of kindness)
