Joshua 23:6

Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom to the right hand or to the left;

Joshua 23:6 (KJV)

Context

Joshua 23 records Joshua’s farewell address to the Israelites, delivered near the end of his life. He reminds them of God’s faithfulness and urges them to continue obeying the law of Moses as they prepare to settle in the Promised Land.

Meaning

Joshua encourages the people to be “very courageous” in keeping and doing all that is written in the book of the law of Moses. This courage is not merely physical but spiritual and mental. It is a firm, fixed resolution to obey God’s commands, even when that obedience goes against societal norms, personal desires, or pressures from others.

The book of the law of Moses refers to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These books contain the laws and instructions God gave to Moses for the Israelites. They serve as a guide for the people to live in accordance with God’s will.

Joshua emphasizes the need for complete obedience. The command not to turn aside “to the right hand or to the left” means the people should not compromise or deviate from God’s commands. They must remain steadfast in their commitment to follow His instructions, without adding to or subtracting from them.

Biblical connections

This call to courage and strict obedience connects with the broader biblical theme of wholehearted devotion to God. The instruction to avoid turning aside echoes the warnings in Deuteronomy, where Moses repeatedly urged Israel to follow the Lord’s commands exactly. Joshua’s words also imply the need to destroy the Canaanites as required in that book and to abstain from all communion and fellowship with them, highlighting the importance of separation from pagan influences.

Application

Although the specific context of Joshua 23:6 pertains to the Israelites entering the Promised Land, there are lessons we can draw from it today. As believers, we are called to be courageous in obeying God’s commands and instructions found throughout the Bible. It requires strength and determination to live according to God’s standards in a world that may oppose or disregard them.

The verse highlights the significance of God’s Word as the ultimate authority for believers. It serves as a guide for righteous living and helps us align our lives with God’s will. Regular study and meditation on the Scriptures enable us to understand His commands and apply them in our daily lives.

The instruction not to turn aside to the right or left emphasizes the need to avoid compromise and remain faithful to God’s Word. It cautions against being swayed by worldly influences or philosophies. This reminds us to maintain unwavering loyalty to God’s truth and not to be led astray by temptations.

Reflection

Joshua 23:6 encourages believers to be courageous in obeying all that is written in God’s Word. It emphasizes the importance of complete obedience and the avoidance of compromise. By staying true to God’s commands and remaining steadfast in our faith, we can experience the blessings and fulfilment that come from walking in His ways.