Joshua 1:8-9

Context

This passage comes from the first chapter of the Book of Joshua. Moses has died, and Joshua, who had served as his minister, must now lead Israel across the Jordan River into Canaan. God promises Joshua the land (1:2-6) and repeats the charge "be strong and of a good courage" three times (1:6, 7, 9). Verse 8 says, "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." Verse 9 tells Joshua not to fear, because God is with him wherever he goes: "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." The people then answer Joshua with the same words (1:18).

The word translated "meditate" is the Hebrew hagah, which carries the sense of murmuring or reciting aloud. The same word appears in Psalm 1:2.

Interpretation

• As a model of Word-centered leadership: On this reading, Joshua's courage comes not from military strength but from holding fast to the law and trusting in God's presence. "Success" is understood as the fruit given to those who walk in God's will.
• As comfort for a new beginning: The passage is read as a promise that God remains with a community that had lost a great leader and was afraid. It is applied to believers facing new beginnings, such as starting school, beginning a new job, moving, or planting a church.
• As a condition of covenant obedience: Because success is tied to keeping the law, some hold that the passage should be read within a covenantal framework such as that of Deuteronomy 28.

Questions Concerning Application

Some criticize reading "thou shalt have good success" as a promise of personal success and advancement, calling it an interpretation shaped by prosperity theology. They argue instead that the success in this passage means accomplishing the mission God has entrusted. In addition, because this encouragement was given on the eve of the conquest of Canaan, the passage connects to the larger question of how to understand the wars of conquest in the Old Testament.

In the Korean Church

"Be strong and of a good courage" is widely used as a theme verse for retreats, young adult ministries, military ministry, and prayer meetings for students facing entrance examinations, and it is also the title of a popular gospel song. Verse 8 is frequently cited as a basis for encouraging quiet time, early-morning meditation, and Scripture memorization.

Related Passages

• Deuteronomy 31:6-8
• Psalm 1:1-3
• Isaiah 41:10
• Matthew 28:20
• Hebrews 13:5-6