And shall say vnto them, Heare O Israel, you approach this day vnto battell against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, feare not, and doe not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them. Deuteronomy 20:3 (KJV)
The book of Deuteronomy, the fifth book of the Old Testament, records Moses’ final teachings and instructions to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. It consists largely of Moses’ speeches that prepare the people for the challenges of settling in the land God had promised them. In this particular passage the priest—or Moses himself—addresses the nation as they stand on the brink of a military confrontation that will precede the possession of Canaan.
The call to battle is clear: the people are urged to move forward with confidence, not allowing fear to dominate their hearts. The speaker exhorts them, “Be strong and of good courage; fear not, nor be afraid of them,” echoing the same spirit found later in Deuteronomy 31:6. By telling the Israelites not to let their hearts faint, the instruction emphasizes that true courage rests on trust in God rather than on human strength.
Divine protection is the foundation of this confidence. The Israelites are reminded that victory does not depend on their own military prowess but on the faithfulness and power of the Almighty who fights for them. This assurance invites them to place their faith in God’s promises, knowing that He will provide for their needs and secure their triumph.
The passage therefore highlights faith over fear. Even when faced with intimidating foes, the people are called to rely on God’s guidance and to reject intimidation that could undermine their obedience. Their dependence on God is a model for believers today, who encounter spiritual battles, personal trials, and difficult circumstances.
Application begins with trusting God’s promises. As the Israelites were called to trust, modern believers are likewise urged to remember that God is faithful and will never abandon them (Hebrews 13:5). Overcoming fear is essential; the Scripture reminds us that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). Recognizing our dependence on God enables us to draw on His wisdom, guidance, and provision, echoing Paul’s declaration, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Finally, the call to courage encourages us to face life’s battles with determination, confident that the Lord walks with us and will not forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6).
