“Be
strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
Joshua 1 [6.] “Be strong and courageous; for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded you. Don’t turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it; for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success. Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for Yahweh your God[a] is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1 [10.] Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, “Pass through the middle of the camp, and command the people, saying, ‘Prepare food; for within three days you are to pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which Yahweh your God gives you to possess it.’”
Footnotes:
a. Joshua 1:9 The Hebrew word rendered “God” is “אֱלֹהִ֑ים” (Elohim).
Meaning:
This verse encapsulates a profound message of divine assurance and encouragement. As Joshua steps into his role as leader of Israel, God’s words are both a command and a promise, instilling courage and confidence in the face of the challenges ahead.
Transition of Leadership: The book of Joshua marks a significant transition from Moses’ leadership to that of Joshua. It chronicles the conquest and settlement of Canaan, highlighting God’s faithfulness and the importance of obedience.
Key Themes: Promises of God’s presence, the call to courage and faithfulness, and the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel.
- Verses Leading to Joshua 1:9:
Verses 1-8: God commissions Joshua, reminding him of the promises made to Moses and commanding him to be strong and courageous. God emphasizes the importance of meditating on the law and being obedient to it.
Significance
- A Command to Courage:
Divine Assurance: God’s command to “be strong and courageous” is not merely a suggestion but a directive reinforced by God’s own authority. It underscores the certainty that Joshua can rely on God’s strength.
Repetition for Emphasis: The phrase is repeated several times in the first chapter, highlighting its importance. God knows Joshua’s fears and uncertainties and addresses them directly.
- The Presence of God:
Promise of Presence: The assurance that “Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go” is the foundation of Joshua’s courage. This promise is not conditional; it is a guarantee of God’s unchanging presence.
Historical Context: This promise recalls God’s presence with Moses (Exodus 3:12, 33:14). It reassures Joshua that the same God who led Israel through the wilderness is with him, providing continuity and stability.
Theological Significance
- God’s Faithfulness and Sovereignty:
Unfailing Promises: This verse underscores the faithfulness of God to His promises. Just as God was with Moses, He will be with Joshua, fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel.
Sovereign Control: The command to be strong and courageous is rooted in the sovereignty of God, who controls all circumstances and guarantees the success of His purposes.
- Encouragement for Believers:
Application to Us: Joshua 1:9 continues to resonate with believers today. It reminds us that God’s presence is with us in every situation, encouraging us to face life’s challenges with faith and courage.
New Testament Assurance: Jesus echoes this assurance in Matthew 28:20, saying, "Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." This continuity of God’s presence is a cornerstone of Christian faith.
Practical Applications
- Living with Courage and Faith:
Facing Challenges: In our daily lives, we encounter various challenges that require courage—be it in our careers, relationships, or personal struggles. Joshua 1:9 calls us to rely on God’s presence and strength, rather than our own abilities.
Stepping Out in Faith: This verse encourages us to step out in faith, trusting that God’s presence goes with us. It inspires us to pursue God’s calling, knowing that we are not alone.
- Embracing God’s Promises:
Meditating on God’s Word: Like Joshua, we are encouraged to meditate on God’s Word daily, allowing it to guide and strengthen us. This practice deepens our faith and aligns our hearts with God’s will.
Prayer and Dependence: Cultivating a life of prayer and dependence on God is vital. We are reminded that our strength and courage come from God, who empowers us through His Holy Spirit.
Cross-References:
Deuteronomy 31:6, 8: "Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid, nor be afraid of them; for Yahweh your God, he it is who goes with you. He will not fail you, nor forsake you." These verses reinforce the promise of God’s presence and encouragement to Joshua, highlighting the continuity of God’s assurance.
Isaiah 41:10: "Fear not, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah’s words echo the reassurance given to Joshua, extending God’s promise of help and strength to all who trust in Him.
Matthew 28:20: "Teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Jesus’ assurance to His disciples parallels the promise given to Joshua, emphasizing the enduring presence of God with His people.
Conclusion: Joshua 1:9 is a profound reminder of God’s unwavering presence and the call to live with courage and faith. It encourages us to trust in God’s promises, to meditate on His Word, and to step forward in faith, knowing that He is with us wherever we go. This verse continues to inspire and comfort believers, assuring us that God’s strength and presence are always available to us, empowering us to face every challenge with confidence.
See also: vs 5-7
armor - soldier - team - valor
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible