The Lord's command to Joshua marks a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, as it signifies the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the commencement of the conquest of Canaan. This command is primarily recorded in the Book of Joshua, particularly in the first chapter, where God directly addresses Joshua, the son of Nun, who had been Moses' assistant.

Context and Background

Following the death of Moses, the servant of the Lord, Joshua is appointed as the leader of the Israelites. Moses had led the people out of Egypt and through the wilderness, but it was Joshua who was chosen to lead them into the Promised Land. This transition is significant as it fulfills the promise God made to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—regarding the land of Canaan.

The Command

The Lord's command to Joshua is both a charge and a promise. In Joshua 1:2-9, God speaks to Joshua, providing him with instructions and assurances:

1. Leadership and Inheritance: "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" (Joshua 1:2). God commands Joshua to lead the people across the Jordan River into the land He has promised to give them.

2. Territorial Boundaries: God delineates the extent of the land that will belong to Israel, from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great river, the Euphrates, and all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea) on the west (Joshua 1:4).

3. Assurance of Victory: "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" (Joshua 1:5). God promises Joshua that he will have victory over his enemies and that His presence will be with him, just as it was with Moses.

4. Call to Courage and Obedience: God repeatedly exhorts Joshua to be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9). This courage is not merely for battle but is rooted in obedience to the Law given through Moses. "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" (Joshua 1:7).

5. Meditation on the Law: The Lord instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night, ensuring that he acts in accordance with all that is written in it. This devotion to the Law is linked to success and prosperity (Joshua 1:8).

6. Divine Presence: The command concludes with a reiteration of God's presence and support: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9).

Significance

The Lord's command to Joshua is foundational for understanding the subsequent narrative of the conquest of Canaan. It underscores the themes of divine promise, faithfulness, and the necessity of obedience to God's Law. Joshua's leadership is characterized by his adherence to these divine instructions, and his success is attributed to the fulfillment of God's promises and the presence of the Lord with him.

This command also serves as a model of godly leadership, emphasizing reliance on God's word, courage in the face of challenges, and the assurance of God's unwavering presence.