Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Deuteronomy 31:6 is a powerful encouragement spoken by Moses to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Moses, knowing that his time as their leader is coming to an end, urges the people to be strong and courageous. His words are meant to inspire confidence and trust in God’s continued presence and protection. The Israelites are about to face daunting enemies and unknown challenges, but Moses reassures them that they are not alone.
The core of this verse is the promise that God will be with His people and will never leave or forsake them. This assurance is meant to drive out fear and replace it with faith. Moses wants the Israelites to understand that their courage does not come from their own strength but from knowing that God is by their side, guiding and protecting them every step of the way.
Historical Context
This verse is set during a critical transition period for Israel. Moses is 120 years old and has been leading the Israelites since their escape from Egypt. Now, as they stand on the threshold of the Promised Land, Moses knows he will not accompany them. Instead, Joshua will take up the mantle of leadership. The Israelites are facing the challenge of conquering Canaan, a land inhabited by strong and hostile nations.
Moses’ words are both a command and a promise. The command is to be strong and courageous, and the promise is that God will never abandon them. This is not the first time the Israelites have been told to trust in God’s presence; throughout their journey, God has repeatedly shown Himself as a faithful protector, providing food, water, and guidance through the wilderness.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Deuteronomy 31:6 emphasizes God’s unchanging nature and His commitment to His people. The promise that God will never leave nor forsake His people is central to understanding His character. God’s presence is not conditional; it does not depend on human strength, circumstances, or worthiness. He is always with His people, guiding, protecting, and loving them through every trial.
This verse also highlights the relationship between faith and fear. God’s presence is the antidote to fear, and knowing that He will never abandon us provides the foundation for true courage. This promise extends beyond the Israelites to all believers, reminding us that we can face any challenge with confidence, not because of our abilities but because of who God is.
Literary Analysis
The structure of Deuteronomy 31:6 is simple yet profound. The verse begins with a call to action: “Be strong and courageous.” This is followed by a reassurance: “Do not be afraid or terrified.” Finally, the reason for this courage is given: “for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” The progression from command to promise reinforces the connection between God’s presence and the strength He provides.
The repetition of this theme in Deuteronomy and throughout Scripture serves to emphasize its importance. God’s continual presence is not just a background detail; it is the driving force behind the courage and faith of His people. The phrase “never leave you nor forsake you” is a deeply comforting promise that resonates throughout the Bible, making this verse one of the most encouraging statements in all of Scripture.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Joshua 1:9 – God tells Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This reinforces the same message given in Deuteronomy 31:6.
- Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” This verse echoes the promise of God’s presence and His command to be fearless.
- Hebrews 13:5 – The author of Hebrews quotes Deuteronomy 31:6, applying the promise of God’s constant presence to all believers: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Deuteronomy 31:6 is a powerful reminder that we are never alone. Just as God promised to be with the Israelites, He promises to be with us in every situation we face. Whether dealing with personal struggles, fears, or challenges, we can draw strength from the knowledge that God’s presence is always with us.
This verse encourages believers to face life with courage and faith, knowing that God’s promise to never leave or forsake us is as true today as it was for the Israelites. It reminds us that we can stand strong, not because we have all the answers or because our circumstances are perfect, but because God is with us every step of the way.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Deuteronomy 31:6 reflects God’s deep love and commitment to His people. God’s promise to never leave or forsake us is an expression of His unchanging love. He doesn’t just send us out on our own; He goes with us, guiding, protecting, and providing for us.
This verse shows that God’s love is personal and active. He knows our fears and insecurities, and He speaks directly to them, offering His presence as the ultimate source of comfort and strength. God’s love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a promise that He will be with us through every trial, every victory, and every moment in between.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Deuteronomy 31:6 connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to be with His people. Jesus is Immanuel, which means “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). Through Jesus, God’s presence is made personal and tangible. Jesus came to earth, lived among us, and promised that He would be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).
Jesus also sends the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, to live within believers, ensuring that God’s presence is always with us. In John 14:16-17, Jesus tells His disciples that the Holy Spirit will be with them forever, further fulfilling the promise of God’s constant presence. Through Jesus, we have the assurance that God’s promise in Deuteronomy 31:6 is fully realized.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What fears or challenges are you facing where you need to be reminded of God’s presence?
- How can you apply the command to be strong and courageous in your daily life?
- In what ways does knowing that God will never leave or forsake you bring comfort in difficult times?
- How does Jesus’ promise to be with us always encourage you in your walk of faith?
- How can you encourage others with the message of Deuteronomy 31:6 in their own struggles?
Deuteronomy 31:6 is a timeless reminder that God’s presence is the source of our courage and strength. It encourages us to face life’s challenges without fear, trusting in the faithful God who goes with us and will never abandon us.