What does Joshua 1:9 mean?
God spoke these words to Joshua just after the death of Moses. Joshua now had to lead the whole nation of Israel across the Jordan River into a land full of fortified cities and powerful enemies. Three times in this chapter God tells him to be strong and courageous. The command does not rest on Joshua's own ability. It rests on a promise: "the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Courage here is not the absence of fear but the choice to move forward because God is present. The verse speaks to anyone facing a new and daunting task, reminding them they do not go alone.
Joshua 1:9 in the King James Version
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
Context
8 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.
9 Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying,
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Frequently asked questions
What does Joshua 1:9 mean?
God spoke these words to Joshua just after the death of Moses. Joshua now had to lead the whole nation of Israel across the Jordan River into a land full of fortified cities and powerful enemies. Three times in this chapter God tells him to be strong and courageous. The command does not rest on Joshua's own ability. It rests on a promise: "the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Courage here is not the absence of fear but the choice to move forward because God is present. The verse speaks to anyone facing a new and daunting task, reminding them they do not go alone.
What does Joshua 1:9 say in the KJV?
Joshua 1:9 (KJV) reads: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”