Explanation of the Bible verse Joshua 1:9
Joshua 1:9 (KJV):
“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.”
1. Context First
Moses, the leader of Israel, has just died. Now Joshua is stepping up to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land—a massive responsibility filled with battles, giants, and unknowns.
God gives Joshua this command—not once, but three times in the same chapter—to be strong and courageous. Why? Because Joshua needed reassurance, not just instructions. And God always gives encouragement with His assignments.
2. Breakdown of Key Phrases
“Have not I commanded thee?”
This is God reminding Joshua—and us—that this is not a suggestion. It’s a divine command backed by divine presence.
When God gives you a calling, He also gives you the courage to carry it out.
“Be strong and of a good courage…”
Be strong = stay firm in faith, don’t fold under pressure.
Of a good courage = rise up with boldness, confidence, and inner bravery.
This is not about personality—it’s about trusting God more than your fear.
God’s not asking you to feel fearless—He’s commanding you to act in faith.
“Be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed…”
Afraid = intimidated by what’s ahead.
Dismayed = discouraged by what’s around you.
Fear wants to paralyze you. Discouragement wants to deflate you. God says: “Refuse to let either rule you.”
“For the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
This is the why behind the what. The reason you can be strong and courageous is because God is with you.
You’re not stepping into the unknown alone. You are stepping forward with divine backup.
3. Then & Now
Then: Joshua was leading people into a land filled with giants, fortified cities, and unknown enemies. But God didn’t give him a sword first—He gave him a word: “I’m with you.”
Now: You might not be leading an army, but maybe you’re entering a new season—starting a business, launching a ministry, making a hard decision, facing a scary situation. This verse still says:
“Don’t be afraid. Don’t be discouraged. God is with you.”
4. Practical Takeaways
Ask yourself: Where is God calling me to be strong and courageous right now? What fears or insecurities am I allowing to speak louder than God’s promise? Do I truly believe God is with me wherever I go?
Your courage isn’t found in the absence of fear—it’s found in the presence of God.
5. Spirit-Led Insight
God doesn’t expect you to have it all figured out—He expects you to trust that He goes before you.
Strength comes from remembering who sent you and who stands with you.
Don’t let fear stop what faith is ready to start.
Final Word
Joshua 1:9 is your divine permission slip to live boldly. It’s God saying:
“I commanded you to be strong. I told you not to fear. I promised to be with you. Now move forward—confident and courageous.”
Say it as a faith declaration:
“I will not be afraid. I will not be discouraged. The Lord my God is with me wherever I go. I am strong. I am courageous. I am called—and I am not alone.”