Exodus 23:27

I will send my feare before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turne their backes vnto thee. Exodus 23:27 (KJV)

Exodus, the second book of the Old Testament, records Israel’s liberation from Egyptian slavery and the subsequent journey toward the Promised Land. In chapter 23 God is giving Moses specific instructions to guide the people as they prepare to enter Canaan. The verse declares a promise of divine protection: God will send “His fear” before the Israelites, a manifestation of His power and authority that inspires awe and terror in their foes. This promise underscores God’s intention to protect and to fight on behalf of His people.

The passage also affirms that God will destroy all the people the Israelites encounter. The reference is to the inhabitants of Canaan, the nations occupying the land that God has pledged to give to Israel. By stating that He will act on their behalf and remove those nations, the verse assures the Israelites that the obstacles to their inheritance will be eliminated.

Furthermore, God says He will make all the enemies turn their backs unto the Israelites. The phrase conveys that the adversaries will flee or retreat in the face of Israel’s advance, delivering victory and demonstrating God’s ability to subdue opposition.

Beyond the historical setting, the verse offers spiritual insight for believers today. It reminds us of God’s continual faithfulness and protection throughout Scripture, His steadfast commitment to the covenant, and His willingness to fight for those who trust in Him. The image of “His fear” before us points to the spiritual battle believers face, where opposition and challenges arise, yet the same divine power stands ready to bring triumph to those who follow God’s will.