Old Testament
Joshua 1:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to follow 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 succeed wherever you go.
Compare translations
Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.
What Joshua 1:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous as he leads the Israelites into the Promised Land. The emphasis on strength and courage highlights the challenges ahead, but God assures Joshua that success comes from adhering to the laws given to Moses. By following these laws closely and not deviating from them, Joshua will ensure that he and the people will prosper in their endeavors. The instruction to avoid turning to the right or left symbolizes the importance of staying focused on God's commands and not being distracted by other influences. This call to obedience is crucial for achieving the goals set before them, reinforcing the idea that faithfulness to God's word is key to success in any undertaking.
How to apply Joshua 1:7 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this verse by being courageous in our decisions and remaining committed to our values and principles. By focusing on what is right and avoiding distractions, we can navigate challenges effectively and achieve our goals with integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The LORD Speaks to Joshua (Joshua 1:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Joshua 1:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Joshua 1:7
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 1:7 mean?
Joshua 1:7 emphasizes the importance of being strong and courageous while leading the Israelites. It highlights that success comes from following God's laws as given to Moses, and staying focused without deviating from these commands.
What is the significance of being strong and courageous in Joshua 1:7?
Being strong and courageous in Joshua 1:7 signifies the need for resilience and determination in the face of challenges. It reassures Joshua that adhering to God's laws will lead to success and prosperity.
What does 'turn not from it to the right or to the left' mean in Joshua 1:7?
The phrase 'turn not from it to the right or to the left' in Joshua 1:7 means to stay focused on God's commands without being distracted by other influences or temptations. It underscores the importance of obedience for achieving success.
How can I apply Joshua 1:7 to my life?
You can apply Joshua 1:7 by being courageous in your decisions and staying committed to your values. Focus on what is right and avoid distractions to effectively navigate challenges and achieve your goals.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.