Deuteronomy 3:28

But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.

Deuteronomy 3:28 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy records Moses’ final speeches to Israel before they enter the Promised Land. In this verse, Moses addresses the people, directing his words specifically to Joshua, who will succeed him as leader after Moses’ death.

Meaning

The verse begins with Moses instructing Joshua. The term “charge” implies a strong command or directive. Moses is transferring authority and responsibility to Joshua, emphasizing that he will lead the Israelites into the land.

Moses then encourages Joshua. The Israelites were about to face battles and challenges as they entered the Promised Land, and Moses encourages Joshua to be courageous and unwavering in his leadership. This encouragement would serve to boost Joshua’s confidence and resolve.

Moses goes on to exhort Joshua to be strong. The task ahead would require both physical and emotional strength. Moses urges Joshua to rely on God’s strength and to be resolute in his faith and trust in God as he leads the people.

The verse ends with Moses assuring Joshua that he will go before the people. This means that Joshua will lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Moses also prophesies that Joshua will cause the people to inherit the land they are about to see. This highlights Joshua’s role as a leader and emphasizes his responsibility to guide the Israelites to possess the land that God had promised to their forefathers.

Biblical connections

This charge is reinforced in Deuteronomy 31:23, where Moses tells Joshua to be strong and courageous, and in Joshua 1:6, where God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, promising to be with him. These passages show the continuity of the charge and the divine presence promised to Joshua.

Application

Deuteronomy 3:28 highlights the passing of leadership from Moses to Joshua and emphasizes the importance of courage, encouragement, and strength as Joshua takes on the responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. It reminds us of the significance of God’s guidance and the role of leaders in fulfilling God’s plans. We are called to support those whom God raises up to lead His people, charging them, encouraging them, and strengthening them for the tasks ahead.

Reflection

Consider how you can encourage and strengthen those whom God has placed in leadership over you. Just as Moses invested in Joshua, we can invest in others, helping them to fulfill God’s calling on their lives.