Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
Deuteronomy 1:38 (BSB)
Joshua son of Nun, who stands before you, will enter it. Encourage him, for he will enable Israel to inherit the land.
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Joshua son of Nun, who stands before you, will enter it. Encourage him, for he will enable Israel to inherit the land.” — Deuteronomy 1:38
In this moment, you can feel the weight of leadership shifting. Joshua, who has been right by Moses’ side, is now being handed the reins to lead the people into a new chapter of their lives. It’s like a coach calling a player to step up into the game of their life. The call to encourage him isn’t just about support; it’s about recognizing the monumental task ahead and the hope that he’ll guide the people toward their promised land. It’s electric, this call to action and belief in Joshua’s potential!
This book, Deuteronomy, is traditionally attributed to Moses. He’s sharing these final words to prepare the Israelites for what’s next, expressing his hopes and concerns. Including this detail about Joshua shows Moses’ faith in him and the importance of leadership in guiding people through change. Moses knows the challenges ahead and wants to inspire confidence in Joshua, setting the stage for the next phase of their journey. It’s like a mentor passing the baton, trusting that the next generation will carry on the mission.
This was written during a pivotal time in Israel’s history, roughly 1400 B.C. The Israelites had experienced years of wandering in the desert, learning lessons about trust, community, and resilience. They were on the edge of entering a land that they had been promised—a fresh start after generations of suffering. Understanding this context helps you see the urgency and hope in this moment. The world was a tough place, and the Israelites needed strong leadership to navigate their future.
This verse matters today because it calls you to recognize the leaders in your life and to encourage them. Just like Joshua needed support to step into his role, you might have people around you who are stepping into new challenges or opportunities. This is a reminder that encouragement can be a powerful catalyst for action. It’s about believing in others and yourself, and knowing that sometimes, all it takes is a little push to step into your purpose.
Look around you this week. Who do you see that could use some encouragement? It could be a friend starting a new job, a family member facing a big life change, or even yourself when you’re feeling uncertain. Take a moment to reach out and offer support—send a text, give a compliment, or simply share your confidence in them. You could also take a step back and consider what new opportunities are ahead for you. What’s a challenge you’re facing? How can you lean on those around you for encouragement?
Leading up to this moment, the Israelites had been wandering in the wilderness, grappling with fear and doubt after being freed from slavery. They’re on the brink of entering a land that’s been promised to them—a place of hope and new beginnings. This verse is a pivotal moment in that story. It marks the transition from Moses, their long-time leader, to Joshua, who’s going to take them forward. It’s a moment of tension and excitement, as the community must let go of the past and trust Joshua to lead them into their future.
What does it look like for you to encourage someone stepping into a new role or challenge? How can you show that you believe in their potential?
Keep reading the full Deuteronomy 1:38 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free