Bible Verse

Joshua 1:9

God is commissioning Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land after Moses' death. Joshua faces the daunting task of military conquest and spiritual leadership.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

— Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Go deeper with Radiate

Personalized wisdom, AI spiritual guides, and faith journaling.

Get the App

Other Translations

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

— ESV

"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."

— KJV

"This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Joshua 1 records God's charge to Joshua as he prepares to cross the Jordan River and face fortified Canaanite cities. The chapter emphasizes courage, obedience to God's law, and confidence in God's presence.

Historical Background

Around 1400 BC, Israel stands on the edge of Canaan after 40 years of wilderness wandering. Joshua, Moses' assistant, must now lead a new generation into battles against powerful enemies.

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"Have I not commanded you?"

God's rhetorical question emphasizes that this is divine command, not suggestion. Courage isn't optional for those following God's calling—it's a command backed by God's authority and promise.

"Be strong and courageous"

Repeated three times in this chapter (verses 6, 7, 9), emphasizing importance. 'Strong' (Hebrew: chazaq) means to prevail, have strength. 'Courageous' (amats) means to be alert, determined, not weak or fearful.

"Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged"

Two prohibitions: don't fear (terror of threats) and don't be dismayed (overwhelmed by circumstances). These address both external threats and internal discouragement.

"for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go"

The foundation for courage: God's presence. Not 'might be' but 'will be'—a certainty. 'Wherever you go' means no place is beyond God's presence and protection. His presence makes the impossible possible.

Key Themes

Courage in callingGod's presenceObedience to God's commandsLeadershipOvercoming fear

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    Face your God-given tasks with courage, knowing God commands it and enables it.

  2. 2

    Replace fear with faith by focusing on God's promise to be with you rather than the size of challenges.

  3. 3

    When feeling inadequate for what God calls you to do, remember God equips whom He calls.

  4. 4

    Take the next step of obedience even when afraid, trusting God's presence goes with you.

  5. 5

    Encourage others facing difficult assignments by reminding them of God's empowering presence.

Questions for Reflection

  • What challenge or calling are you facing where you need God's command to be strong and courageous?
  • How does knowing God is with you 'wherever you go' change your approach to difficult situations?
  • What would you attempt for God if you truly believed He was with you?
  • Are you letting fear or discouragement prevent you from obeying what God has called you to do?

Related Scripture

Deuteronomy 31:6

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you."

Isaiah 41:10

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God."

Psalm 27:1

"The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"

Matthew 28:20

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Continue Exploring

Related Characters

Take this verse with you

Get daily personalized wisdom, reflect with AI guides, and journal your spiritual growth.

Download Radiate Free
Download Free