Deuteronomy 31:6—“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it isthat doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
As Israel prepared to enter Canaan, Moses announced that he would no longer lead them. Before them lay formidable enemies; behind them lay years of wilderness wandering. They needed to draw courage from God's presence and faithfulness rather than from Moses’ continued leadership.
“Be strong and of a good courage” calls for steadfast obedience amid daunting circumstances. Courage does not require the absence of danger or the denial of weakness. It means proceeding faithfully because God has spoken. The accompanying command, “fear not, nor be afraid of them,” directs Israel away from intimidation by their enemies and towards confidence in their covenant Lord.
The reason is this: “for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee”. Their security depended on the God who had redeemed, sustained, and guided them. Moses would depart, but the LORD would remain. Changes in human leadership could not cancel His promises or frustrate His purposes.
“He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” assures them of His unfailing support. This promise did not excuse unbelief or disobedience; it encouraged faithful dependence. Hebrews 13:5 applies the same assurance to believers, teaching contentment and confidence in God’s enduring care.
Unfamiliar responsibilities, opposition, or the loss of trusted support may trouble your heart. Your strength lies in the Lord, who remains faithful. Seek His will in Scripture, obey His commands, and bring your fears to Him in prayer. You need not know every difficulty ahead to trust the God who will never forsake you.
