Old Testament
Joshua 24:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is recounting His protection over the Israelites during their journey.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
But I refused to listen to Balaam; therefore, he continued to bless you. So I delivered you from his hand.
But I would not hearken unto Balaam; therefore he blessed you still: so I delivered you out of his hand.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is recounting His protection over the Israelites during their journey. Balaam, a prophet hired to curse Israel, was unable to do so because God intervened. Instead of cursing, Balaam ended up blessing the Israelites. This shows God's sovereignty and His commitment to His people. Despite attempts from outside forces to harm them, God ensured their safety and success. The verse emphasizes that God is in control and will not allow His plans for His people to be thwarted. It reassures the Israelites of God's faithfulness and power, reminding them that they are under His divine protection. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's guidance and recognizing His hand in their lives, even when faced with opposition. It highlights the idea that God can turn intended curses into blessings, showcasing His ability to work for the good of those who follow Him.
Key themes
Related topics
Related Bible verses
How to apply Joshua 24:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's protection and guidance in our lives. Even when faced with challenges or opposition, we can have faith that God is working for our good. We should remain steadfast in our relationship with Him, knowing that He can turn negative situations into blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 24:10 mean?
Joshua 24:10 highlights God's protection over the Israelites by recounting how He prevented Balaam from cursing them. Instead, Balaam ended up blessing Israel, demonstrating God's sovereignty and commitment to His people.
What is the significance of Balaam in Joshua 24:10?
Balaam was a prophet hired to curse the Israelites, but God intervened and made him bless them instead. This illustrates God's power to protect His people from harm and turn intended curses into blessings.
How does Joshua 24:10 show God's sovereignty?
The verse shows God's sovereignty by demonstrating that despite human intentions to curse Israel, God's will prevailed, resulting in blessings instead. This emphasizes that God is ultimately in control of events.
What can we learn from Joshua 24:10 about trusting God?
Joshua 24:10 teaches us to trust in God's protection and guidance, especially in challenging situations. It reminds us that God can transform negative circumstances into positive outcomes for those who follow Him.

The Book of Joshua
1: God Commissions Joshua
After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.
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