Meaning of Deuteronomy 31:6

This verse from Deuteronomy 31:6 is a foundational promise of divine presence and empowerment, delivered by Moses to the Israelites as they stood on the cusp of entering the Promised Land. It serves as a powerful exhortation to courage and steadfastness in the face of daunting challenges. The command to "be strong and courageous" is not an arbitrary demand but a direct response to the inevitable fear and apprehension that would arise from confronting powerful nations and unfamiliar territories. The assurance that "the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you" is the bedrock upon which this courage is to be built, highlighting that their strength and success were not dependent on their own might but on the unwavering presence and support of God.

Context and Background

Deuteronomy 31 marks the final days of Moses' leadership. He is relaying God's instructions and promises to the new generation of Israelites, those who were born in the wilderness and are now preparing to conquer Canaan. Moses himself will not enter the land, a consequence of his past disobedience (Numbers 20:12). Therefore, this charge to Joshua and the people is imbued with a sense of legacy and the transmission of divine mandate. The "them" in the verse refers to the inhabitants of Canaan, who were perceived as formidable adversaries. This is a pivotal moment, a transition from a period of wandering and preparation to one of conquest and settlement, requiring immense faith and bravery.

Key Themes and Messages

The central themes are courage, divine presence, and faithfulness. The imperative to be "strong and courageous" is repeated throughout Scripture, often in situations demanding faith against overwhelming odds. This is not a stoic suppression of fear, but rather a courageous act of obedience despite fear, knowing that God is actively involved. The promise of God's perpetual presence – "he will never leave you nor forsake you" – is a profound assurance that their journey would not be one of isolation but of constant companionship. This implies God's active participation in their lives, providing guidance, strength, and protection.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Deuteronomy 31:6 offers a timeless principle for navigating life's challenges. Whether facing personal struggles, professional obstacles, or spiritual warfare, the verse calls us to confront our fears with the knowledge that God is with us. It underscores the importance of faith over fear. Our strength is not inherent but derived from God's power, which is made available through His presence. The promise of God's never-leaving, never-forsaking nature provides immense comfort and security, meaning that even in our darkest moments or when we feel most alone, we are never truly abandoned.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This promise echoes throughout the Old and New Testaments. It is a foundational statement of God's covenantal faithfulness. In the Old Testament, it is seen in the victories of Joshua, the resilience of David, and the eventual return from exile. In the New Testament, this promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is Immanuel ("God with us," Matthew 1:23). The New Testament writers, like the author of Hebrews, directly quote and apply this promise to Christians (Hebrews 13:5-6), assuring them of Christ's indwelling presence through the Holy Spirit and His eternal commitment to His people.

Analogies

Consider a child learning to ride a bicycle. The initial wobbles and fear of falling are palpable. However, with a parent running alongside, offering a steadying hand and words of encouragement ("You can do it! I'm right here!"), the child gains the courage to pedal. The parent's presence and support are the child's source of confidence. Similarly, God's presence is our assurance that we are not facing life's challenges alone; He is our constant support, enabling us to move forward with boldness. Another analogy is a seasoned captain navigating a ship through a storm. While the waves are terrifying and the wind howls, the captain's knowledge of the ship, the sea, and the presence of a capable crew instill confidence. God is our ultimate captain, His presence our surest guide through the storms of life.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse is in direct dialogue with other biblical passages.

• Joshua 1:9: This verse, addressed to Joshua, directly echoes Deuteronomy 31:6: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
• Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." This psalm underscores the comforting presence of God in times of distress.
• Matthew 28:20: Jesus' final commission to His disciples: "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This is the New Testament fulfillment of God's promise of perpetual presence.
• Hebrews 13:5-6: "Keep your lives free from love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' We say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?'" This passage explicitly applies the Deuteronomic promise to believers.