Topical Bible: Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Promises To

◄ Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Promises To ►

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Joshua, originally named Hoshea, meaning "salvation," was the son of Nun from the tribe of Ephraim. Moses renamed him Joshua, which means "The LORD is salvation" (Numbers 13:16). He is a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his unwavering faith and leadership in guiding the Israelites into the Promised Land after the death of Moses.

Promises to Joshua:

1. Promise of Leadership and Success:
God promised Joshua that he would lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, a task initially given to Moses. This promise is a continuation of the covenant God made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In Joshua 1:2-3 , God commands Joshua, "Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore arise, you and all these people, and cross over the Jordan into the land that I am giving to the children of Israel. I have given you every place where the sole of your foot will tread, just as I promised to Moses."

2. Promise of Divine Presence:
God assured Joshua of His constant presence, a promise that would provide Joshua with the courage and strength needed to fulfill his mission. In Joshua 1:5 , God declares, "No man shall stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you."

3. Promise of Victory Over Enemies:
The Lord promised Joshua victory over the enemies of Israel. This assurance was crucial as Joshua faced numerous battles against the inhabitants of Canaan. In Joshua 1:6 , God encourages him, "Be strong and courageous, for you shall give these people the inheritance of the land that I swore to their fathers I would give them."

4. Promise of Prosperity and Success Through Obedience:
God instructed Joshua to adhere strictly to the Law given through Moses, promising prosperity and success as a result of his obedience. Joshua 1:7-8 states, "Above all, be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe all the law that My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do."

5. Promise of Rest:
God promised Joshua that the Israelites would find rest in the land He was giving them. This rest symbolized not only physical peace from their enemies but also spiritual rest in God's faithfulness. In Joshua 21:44 , it is recorded, "And the LORD gave them rest on every side, just as He had sworn to their fathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hands."

Joshua's life and leadership exemplify the fulfillment of God's promises through faith and obedience. His account is a testament to God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His word.

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Joshua 1:5-9
There shall not any man be able to stand before you all the days of your life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with you: I will not fail you, nor forsake you.
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