Deuteronomy 7:18

Thou shalt not be afraid of them: but shalt well remember what the Lord thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt;

Deuteronomy 7:18 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and the final book of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah. It records Moses’ last words to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land, reiterating and expanding the laws and commandments given during their wilderness journey.

In Deuteronomy 7:18, Moses addresses the Israelites as they prepare to enter Canaan. He urges them not to fear the nations inhabiting the land, despite their number or strength, and to remember what the Lord did unto Pharaoh and all Egypt.

Meaning

The command “thou shalt not be afraid of them” is direct and absolute. Fear is forbidden, not because the enemy is small, but because God is great. The antidote to fear is to “well remember” the Lord’s past deliverance. This is not a passive recollection but an active, deliberate act of calling to mind God’s faithfulness as the basis for present courage and trust.

The reference to Pharaoh and Egypt recalls the ten plagues and the liberation of Israel from slavery. The Egyptians were more numerous and powerful than the Canaanites, yet God’s power compelled them to let Israel go. The argument is that the same God who delivered them from Egypt can and will deal with the Canaanites.

Application

While originally directed toward the Israelites entering the Promised Land, this verse carries important principles for believers today. We may face various challenges, uncertainties, and opposition, but we are encouraged not to be fearful. Instead, we should recall God’s faithfulness and deliverance in our own lives or through biblical accounts. Reflecting on God’s past acts of salvation can strengthen our faith and provide us with the courage to face present and future obstacles.

Reflection

Remembering is a spiritual discipline. When fear rises, we can deliberately call to mind what God has done—in Scripture, in history, and in our own experience. The God who acted powerfully in the past continues to protect and guide His people now.