1 Chronicles 19:13

KJV

Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LORD do [that which is] good in his sight.

KJV (with Strong's)

Be of good courage {H2388}, and let us behave ourselves valiantly {H2388} for our people {H5971}, and for the cities {H5892} of our God {H430}: and let the LORD {H3068} do {H6213} that which is good {H2896} in his sight {H5869}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Take courage, and let's be strong for the sake of our people and the cities of our God. May ADONAI do what seems good to him."

Berean Standard Bible

Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and for the cities of our God. May the LORD do what is good in His sight.”

American Standard Version

Be of good courage, and let us play the man for our people, and for the cities of our God: and Jehovah do that which seemeth him good.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In a moment of dire military crisis, facing a formidable combined enemy, Joab, King David's seasoned commander, issues a profound rallying cry to his troops. This declaration masterfully intertwines the imperative for human courage and valiant action with a deep, humble submission to God's ultimate sovereignty. It serves as a timeless principle for navigating overwhelming challenges, emphasizing that while human effort and duty are essential, the final outcome rests in the wise and good hands of the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This powerful declaration by Joab, King David's commander, is situated at a critical juncture in the narrative of David's reign, specifically within the account of his wars against the Ammonites and Syrians (Arameans) in [1 Chronicles 19](/1_chronicles/19 "1 Chronicles 19 - War with Ammon and Syria"). The conflict escalates after the Ammonite king Hanun severely humiliates David's ambassadors, who were sent to offer condolences (see [1 Chronicles 19:1-5](/1_chronicles/19-1-5 "1 Chronicles 19:1-5 - David's Messengers Humiliated")). This act of profound disrespect directly provokes war. Joab is then dispatched with the full might of Israel's army. He finds himself in a precarious strategic position, with the Ammonites arrayed before the city and the Syrians positioned behind them, effectively sandwiching the Israelite forces ([1 Chronicles 19:9-10](/1_chronicles/19-9-10 "1 Chronicles 19:9-10 - The Battle Lines Are Drawn")). In response, Joab skillfully divides his forces, placing a contingent under his brother Abishai to face the Ammonites while he takes the elite troops to confront the Syrians. It is immediately before this decisive two-front battle that Joab delivers this charge, a blend of military strategy and spiritual resolve, to inspire his men.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of [1 Chronicles 19](/1_chronicles/19 "1 Chronicles 19 - War with Ammon and Syria") occur during the zenith of David's kingdom, a period marked by both internal consolidation and external expansion. Warfare was a common and brutal reality, often intertwined with national identity and religious conviction. The humiliation of ambassadors, as seen in [1 Chronicles 19:4](/1_chronicles/19-4 "1 Chronicles 19:4 - Humiliation of David's Servants"), was a grave insult in the ancient Near East, tantamount to a declaration of war, as it violated sacred diplomatic norms and dishonored the sovereign. For Israel, battles were not merely geopolitical contests but often seen as divine judgments or opportunities for God to demonstrate His faithfulness to His covenant people. Leaders like Joab understood that while military prowess was crucial, the ultimate victory depended on the Lord's favor. This context highlights the profound spiritual dimension embedded within Israelite military campaigns, where human valor was expected, but divine sovereignty was acknowledged as supreme.
* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several pivotal themes central to the book of Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of **human responsibility and divine sovereignty**, demonstrating a balanced theological perspective where diligent human effort is commanded, yet the final outcome is surrendered to God's perfect will. This reflects a mature faith that avoids both presumption and fatalism. Another key theme is **courage and valor in the face of adversity**, emphasizing the necessity of unwavering bravery and strength, particularly when facing overwhelming odds, as David's army did ([1 Chronicles 19:10](/1_chronicles/19-10 "1 Chronicles 19:10 - Joab's Strategic Dilemma")). The motivation for this courage is deeply rooted in **national and religious duty**, as the soldiers are called to fight "for our people, and for the cities of our God," underscoring the sacredness of their nation and the places dedicated to the Lord. This reflects the covenant identity of Israel, where their existence and well-being were intrinsically linked to their relationship with God and His dwelling among them.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **courage (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** This primitive root (H2388) means "to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate." It encompasses both the internal state of being strong and the active process of strengthening oneself or others. In this context, Joab exhorts his men to embody this inner fortitude and to actively make themselves strong and resolute for the battle ahead.
* **good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** This adjective (H2896) signifies "good in the widest sense," including that which is beautiful, best, beneficial, pleasing, or prosperous. When applied to God's actions or His "sight," as it is here, it conveys that whatever God chooses to do is inherently righteous, wise, and ultimately for the highest good, even if the immediate circumstances appear difficult or contrary to human desires. It speaks to God's perfect moral character and benevolent sovereignty.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This proper noun (H3068) is the Jewish national name of God, derived from the root meaning "to be" or "to exist." It refers to the self-Existent or Eternal God, emphasizing His unchanging, covenant-keeping nature. Joab's use of "the LORD" (Yahweh) underscores that the ultimate authority and power in the battle, and over all outcomes, rests with the sovereign God of Israel, to whom they are accountable and in whom they trust.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Be of good courage":** This is a direct, imperative command, calling the soldiers to an inner resolve and a cultivated spirit of fearlessness. It acknowledges the natural human inclination towards fear in the face of battle but demands a deliberate act of will to overcome it, fostering an internal fortitude essential for the coming conflict.
* **"and let us behave ourselves valiantly":** This clause transitions from internal resolve to external, decisive action. It is a collective call for the troops to manifest their courage through strong, determined, and effective conduct on the battlefield. This implies not just bravery, but also skill, unity, and vigorous engagement in their fighting duties.
* **"for our people, and for the cities of our God":** This phrase provides the profound and sacred motivation for their courage and valor. They are fighting not for personal glory or mere conquest, but for the very existence and well-being of their nation ("our people") and for the sanctity and security of the places dedicated to the Lord ("the cities of our God," which would include Jerusalem and its temple, as well as other towns where God was worshipped). This elevates the conflict to a sacred duty, intrinsically linked to their covenant identity.
* **"and let the LORD do [that which is] good in his sight":** This culminating phrase represents the ultimate act of faith and surrender. After committing to their utmost human effort and fulfilling their duty, Joab directs his men to release the outcome into God's sovereign hands. It expresses a profound trust that whatever God decides, it will be righteous, wise, and ultimately for the best, regardless of how it appears from a human perspective. It is an acknowledgment that God's plan supersedes all human desires or expectations.

#### Literary Devices
Joab's declaration is rich with literary and rhetorical force, designed to inspire and instruct his troops. The primary device is **Exhortation**, a direct and powerful call to action and a specific state of mind, delivered with the urgency of a high-stakes military situation. This exhortation is structured with a clear **Juxtaposition** between human responsibility and divine sovereignty. The initial clauses ("Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly") emphasize the absolute necessity of human effort and duty, while the final clause ("and let the LORD do [that which is] good in his sight") immediately shifts focus to God's ultimate control. This creates a balanced theological statement, preventing either human presumption or passive fatalism. The phrase "for our people, and for the cities of our God" employs **Patriotic and Religious Appeals**, tapping into deep-seated loyalties and covenantal values to intensify the motivation for battle. The entire statement functions as a **Theological Statement**, articulating a core tenet of Israelite faith: that human endeavor, when undertaken with righteous motives, must always be submitted to the overarching will and wisdom of God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joab's words in [1 Chronicles 19:13](/1_chronicles/19-13 "1 Chronicles 19:13 - Joab's Charge to His Troops") offer a profound theological insight into the nature of faith and action. They articulate a foundational biblical principle: the seamless integration of diligent human effort with absolute trust in divine sovereignty. This is not a call for passive resignation, but rather for an active, courageous engagement in one's responsibilities, followed by a humble surrender of the outcome to God's perfect will. It teaches that true courage isn't the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it, motivated by duty to God and community, and ultimately resting in the assurance that God's plans are always good and righteous. This perspective liberates individuals from the burden of needing to control every outcome, allowing them to focus on faithful obedience and effort, knowing that God is ultimately in control.

* [Deuteronomy 31:6](/deuteronomy/31-6 "Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be Strong and Courageous")
* [Psalm 20:7](/psalms/20-7 "Psalm 20:7 - Trust in the Lord")
* [Proverbs 21:31](/proverbs/21-31 "Proverbs 21:31 - Victory Belongs to the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joab's ancient battlefield exhortation transcends its military context, offering timeless wisdom for believers navigating the challenges of life. We are called to embody this "active faith" in our own spheres of influence, whether in our vocations, families, communities, or ministries. This means approaching our tasks with diligence, integrity, and courage, giving our best effort and acting with resolve, even when faced with daunting obstacles or uncertainties. Our efforts should be purposeful, directed "for our people" – our families, friends, neighbors, and fellow believers – and "for the cities of our God" – working for the spiritual well-being, justice, and flourishing of God's kingdom in the world. After we have poured ourselves into our responsibilities with all our might, the profound wisdom of this verse teaches us to release the outcome to God. This surrender is not a sign of weakness or apathy, but an act of deep trust, acknowledging that God's perspective is perfect and His plans are ultimately good, regardless of immediate appearances. It frees us from anxiety and the need to control what is beyond our power, allowing us to rest in the peace of God's sovereign care.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What current challenges in your life or ministry require you to "be of good courage" and "behave valiantly"?**
* **For whom or what "people" and "cities of our God" are you called to exert your best efforts today?**
* **How do you typically respond when you've done all you can, but the outcome remains uncertain? How can Joab's final statement, "let the LORD do [that which is] good in his sight," transform your perspective?**
* **In what areas of your life do you struggle to balance diligent human effort with complete trust in God's sovereignty?**

### FAQ
**Why is Joab, a military commander, speaking about God's will in such a theological way?**

Answer: Joab, as David's commander, was not merely a tactician but a leader within God's covenant nation, Israel. In ancient Israelite society, warfare was often viewed through a theological lens, with battles seen as extensions of God's will and His involvement in the nation's destiny. Leaders understood that ultimate victory came from the Lord, not just from human strength or strategy. Joab's declaration reflects a deep understanding of this reality, acknowledging that while human courage and effort are essential, God's sovereignty ultimately determines the outcome. This demonstrates that faith was an integral part of their national identity and military endeavors, even for a pragmatic figure like Joab. He understood that the morale of his troops depended not just on their training, but on their trust in the God who fought for Israel, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 20:4](/deuteronomy/20-4 "The Lord Fights for You").

**Does "let the LORD do that which is good" imply fatalism or inaction on the part of the soldiers?**

Answer: Absolutely not. The phrasing of [1 Chronicles 19:13](/1_chronicles/19-13 "1 Chronicles 19:13 - Joab's Charge to His Troops") is crucial here. The command to "Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly" *precedes* the statement of surrender to God's will. This sequence is vital: it emphasizes that human effort, diligence, and bravery are not optional but are, in fact, commanded and expected. Only *after* committing to their utmost effort does Joab then release the outcome to God. This is an act of profound faith and trust, not resignation or an excuse for passivity. It teaches that we are to do our part with all our might, and then confidently entrust the results to God's perfect wisdom and power, knowing that His plans are always for the ultimate good ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works for Good")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The principle articulated by Joab in [1 Chronicles 19:13](/1_chronicles/19-13 "1 Chronicles 19:13 - Joab's Charge to His Troops") finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of one who perfectly balanced courageous, valiant action with complete submission to the Father's will. From facing the temptations in the wilderness ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Temptation of Jesus")) to setting His face towards Jerusalem despite knowing the suffering that awaited Him ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Jesus Sets His Face Toward Jerusalem")), Jesus consistently demonstrated unwavering courage in fulfilling His mission "for our people" – humanity – and "for the cities of our God" – establishing His spiritual kingdom. His ultimate act of valor was His willing sacrifice on the cross, where He "behaved valiantly" against sin and death, yet simultaneously prayed, "Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done" ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane")). He perfectly entrusted the outcome to the Father, knowing that God would do what was "good in his sight" – leading to His resurrection and the redemption of humanity. For believers, our courage and valiant living are now rooted in Christ's victory. We are called to "be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might" ([Ephesians 6:10](/ephesians/6-10 "The Whole Armor of God")), knowing that He has already overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "Jesus Overcomes the World")). We strive with all our might, not in our own strength, but empowered by His Spirit, and then confidently rest in the sovereign will of our Heavenly Father, whose ultimate good for us is found in Christ Jesus ([Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "I Can Do All Things Through Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 4:14

And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord, [which is] great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses.

Psalms 27:14

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

Joshua 10:25

And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the LORD do to all your enemies against whom ye fight.

2 Samuel 10:12

Be of good courage, and let us play the men for our people, and for the cities of our God: and the LORD do that which seemeth him good.

1 Corinthians 16:13

¶ Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

1 Samuel 4:9

Be strong, and quit yourselves like men, O ye Philistines, that ye be not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have been to you: quit yourselves like men, and fight.

Joshua 1:7

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it [to] the right hand or [to] the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.