Old Testament
Joshua 1:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
We obeyed Moses in everything, and we will obey you the same way. We only ask that the LORD your God be with you the way he was with Moses.
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According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses.
What Joshua 1:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people of Israel express their commitment to Joshua, the new leader after Moses. They affirm that they will follow Joshua just as they followed Moses, showing their loyalty and unity. Their request for the Lord to be with Joshua highlights their understanding of the importance of divine guidance and support in leadership. They recognize that Moses' success was due to God's presence with him, and they desire the same assurance for Joshua. This statement reflects their faith in both God and their new leader, emphasizing the continuity of God's plan for Israel. The verse illustrates the transition of leadership and the need for the community to rally around their leader, trusting in God's ongoing presence and guidance. It serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God’s appointed leaders and the necessity of divine support in fulfilling God’s mission.
How to apply Joshua 1:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to support our leaders and remain committed to following their guidance, especially when they are aligned with God's will. It also reminds us to seek God's presence in our lives and the lives of those who lead us, ensuring we are all working together under His guidance.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The LORD Speaks to Joshua (Joshua 1:1–18)
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Joshua
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Joshua 1:17
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 1:17 mean?
Joshua 1:17 expresses the commitment of the Israelites to follow their new leader, Joshua, just as they followed Moses. They emphasize the importance of God's presence with Joshua, indicating their faith in both him and God's guidance.
What is the significance of obedience in Joshua 1:17?
Obedience in Joshua 1:17 highlights the unity and loyalty of the Israelites towards their leaders. It shows that following God's appointed leaders is crucial for maintaining order and fulfilling God's mission.
How does Joshua 1:17 relate to leadership?
Joshua 1:17 illustrates the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, emphasizing the need for community support and trust in God's guidance for effective leadership.
What does the phrase 'the LORD your God be with you' mean in Joshua 1:17?
The phrase 'the LORD your God be with you' signifies the Israelites' desire for divine support and guidance for Joshua, reflecting their understanding that successful leadership relies on God's presence.
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