Joshua 1:9

9 Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous?^[a] Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Joshua 1:9 Meaning and Commentary

Joshua 1:9

Have not I commanded thee?
&c.] The above things, to go over Jordan with the people into the land of Canaan, and to observe the law of Moses in all things, and to be of good courage, which is again repeated; consider who it is that has given these orders and instructions, the great Jehovah, the everlasting I AM, who is faithful to his promises, and able to perform. The consideration of which would serve to animate him to the work he was called unto, to encourage his faith in God, to engage in his service cheerfully and readily:

be strong, and of a good courage; (See Gill on Joshua 1:6); (See Gill on Joshua 1:7).

be not afraid, nor be thou dismayed;
at his enemies, numerous and powerful, nor discouraged at anything in himself, any unfitness for such service, as he might think, or at any difficulties he might fear from the people he had the government of, and was to lead on; it was enough that the divine Presence was promised him, and which is repeated:

for the Lord thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest:
or, as the Targum of Jonathan,

``for thy help is the Word of the Lord thy God;''

(See Gill on Joshua 1:5).

Joshua 1:9 In-Context

7 Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go.

8 This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night, so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do.

9 Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people:

11 "Go through the camp and tell the people, 'Get provisions ready for yourselves, for within three days you will be crossing the Jordan to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you to inherit.' "

Footnotes

• [a]. Jos 1:6-7,18; 10:25; Dt 31:7