Joshua 3:7 – And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, God speaks directly to Joshua, reassuring him that He will exalt him in the eyes of the people. This is a significant moment because it marks the beginning of Joshua’s public recognition as the leader of Israel, just as Moses had been. By declaring His intention to exalt Joshua, God is confirming Joshua’s leadership and authority. This affirmation was crucial because Joshua was leading the Israelites into a new chapter, crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. God’s statement, “so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses,” serves to strengthen Joshua’s confidence and demonstrate to the people that God’s presence and power would continue with their new leader.
Historical Context
Joshua had recently taken over leadership from Moses, who had been the primary leader of Israel for forty years. The Israelites were on the verge of crossing the Jordan River, a moment that would be pivotal in their journey as a nation. Moses had been a powerful leader, performing miracles and directly communicating with God, and now the people needed assurance that God’s presence was still with them under Joshua’s leadership. This verse serves as God’s endorsement of Joshua, paralleling the way God was with Moses during critical moments like the parting of the Red Sea. By exalting Joshua, God was showing that He had not abandoned His people and that His plans were still moving forward.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse emphasizes God’s sovereign choice and the importance of His presence with His chosen leaders. God’s promise to exalt Joshua shows that leadership and authority come from Him, not from human effort or acclaim. It highlights the continuity of God’s work; even though Moses was no longer leading, God’s purpose and presence remained steadfast. This teaches us that God’s plans are not dependent on one individual but on His will and power. The verse also underscores the importance of God’s presence as the true source of a leader’s strength and effectiveness.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses direct speech from God, highlighting the personal relationship between God and Joshua. The phrase “Today I will begin to exalt you” is both specific and immediate, showing that God’s actions are timely and purposeful. The comparison to Moses is significant because it connects Joshua’s present role to Israel’s past, reinforcing continuity in God’s leadership of His people. The structure of the verse serves to build anticipation for what God will do next, setting up Joshua’s role as God’s chosen leader.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 3:12: God assures Moses of His presence, saying, “I will be with you.” This parallels God’s promise to be with Joshua.
- Deuteronomy 31:23: God encourages Joshua, saying, “Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them, and I myself will be with you.”
- 1 Samuel 16:13: God anoints David in the presence of his brothers, showing that God raises up leaders for His purposes.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, Joshua 3:7 serves as a reminder that God equips and exalts those He calls according to His purpose. Just as God affirmed Joshua, He also affirms and strengthens believers in their calling. This verse encourages Christians to trust that God’s presence is with them, even when stepping into new roles or responsibilities. It teaches that God’s guidance and favor are not limited to the “big names” of faith like Moses but extend to anyone God calls and equips.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s loving nature in how He reassures and empowers His people. By exalting Joshua, God was not only affirming Joshua’s leadership but also showing His ongoing commitment to Israel. God’s love is seen in His desire to guide and comfort His people, providing them with leadership that reflects His presence. It’s a reminder that God’s love includes empowering His people to fulfill their roles and ensuring they are not left alone in their tasks.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Joshua 3:7 connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to be with His people. Just as God exalted Joshua to lead Israel, Jesus was exalted as the Savior and leader of all humanity. Philippians 2:9-11 tells us, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.” Jesus’ exaltation assures us that He is always with us, guiding and leading us just as God was with Joshua. This connection reminds us that God’s presence, power, and guidance are made perfect in Christ, who leads believers today.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does God’s promise to be with Joshua encourage you in your own life and responsibilities?
- What are some areas where you need to trust God’s presence and guidance more fully?
- How can you remind yourself that God exalts and empowers those He calls, just as He did with Joshua?
- How does understanding Jesus’ exaltation help you trust in His leadership over your life today?