Deuteronomy 31:6

KJV

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Be strong {H2388} and of a good courage {H553}, fear {H3372} not, nor be afraid {H6206} of them {H6440}: for the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}, he it is that doth go {H1980} with thee; he will not fail {H7503} thee, nor forsake {H5800} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Be strong, be bold, don't be afraid or frightened of them, for ADONAI your God is going with you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you."

Berean Standard Bible

Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

American Standard Version

Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be affrighted at them: for Jehovah thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 31:6 is a powerful and foundational declaration delivered by Moses to the Israelites as they stood on the brink of entering the Promised Land. This verse serves as a profound charge to courage and an antidote to fear, assuring both the entire nation and their newly appointed leader, Joshua, that their ultimate strength, success, and security are not rooted in their own capabilities or military might, but in the unwavering presence and covenant faithfulness of the LORD their God, who promises never to abandon or fail His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Moses' final, poignant discourse to the nation of Israel, meticulously recorded in the book of Deuteronomy. As Moses approaches his impending death and the Israelites prepare for the momentous crossing of the Jordan River into Canaan, he delivers a series of vital exhortations, reiterations of the Law, and blessings. Chapter 31 marks a crucial transitional moment, as Moses formally commissions Joshua as his successor in the full view of all Israel. Verses 1-8 specifically detail Moses' concluding words of encouragement, addressed first to the people and then directly to Joshua, emphasizing God's continuous leadership and steadfast faithfulness. Deuteronomy 31:6 functions as the foundational promise that undergirds the subsequent, direct command to Joshua found in [Deuteronomy 31:7-8](/deuteronomy/31-7-8 "Deuteronomy 31:7-8 - Moses Commissions Joshua"), where Moses reiterates the identical message of strength and courage, assuring Joshua that the LORD Himself will go before him. This charge here not only anticipates but also directly sets the theological and narrative stage for the subsequent book of Joshua, particularly [Joshua 1:1-9](/joshua/1-1-9 "Joshua 1:1-9 - God's Commission to Joshua"), where God Himself echoes and expands upon this very command to Joshua, making it the cornerstone of his leadership.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites found themselves at a pivotal and profoundly daunting threshold. The arduous forty years of wilderness wandering were drawing to a close, and the formidable, divinely mandated task of conquering the land of Canaan lay immediately before them. This was a territory inhabited by powerful, often idolatrous, nations possessing fortified cities and, in many cases, superior military technology. The collective memory of their parents' catastrophic failure to enter the land, which was primarily due to fear and unbelief, as vividly recounted in [Numbers 14](/numbers/14 "Numbers 14 - Israel's Rebellion and God's Judgment"), loomed large over the current generation. Culturally, leadership transitions, especially from a figure as monumental and divinely appointed as Moses, to a new, untested leader like Joshua, would naturally induce considerable apprehension and uncertainty among the people. Moses' words in this verse were far more than mere platitudes; they served as an essential spiritual and psychological anchor for a people facing immense challenges, powerfully reminding them that their success and victory would not be achieved by human strength or military prowess, but solely by divine presence and omnipotent power—a concept absolutely central to their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 31:6 masterfully encapsulates several overarching and enduring themes prevalent throughout the book of Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. The theme of **Divine Presence** is unequivocally central, declaring that "the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee," which profoundly signifies God's active, personal, and guiding involvement in the daily life and grand endeavors of His covenant people. This intimate presence serves as the bedrock for the theme of **Courage and Fearlessness**, as the repeated imperative "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them" directly confronts and counters the innate human tendency towards apprehension in the face of overwhelming odds, grounding true bravery not in human strength but in God's unwavering faithfulness. Finally, the potent double negative promise, "he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee," emphatically underscores the theme of **God's Unfailing Faithfulness** and His immutable covenant loyalty. This profound assurance that God will never abandon His people or renege on His sacred promises, regardless of the obstacles they face or even their own shortcomings, is a foundational truth that resonates deeply and consistently throughout the entire biblical narrative, from the initial covenant with Abraham in [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abraham") to the ultimate New Covenant promises revealed in the New Testament.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strong (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** This primitive root signifies "to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate." In the imperative "Be strong," it conveys a command to actively take hold of inner resolve, to be firm, resolute, and to gather one's strength. It's an active call to fortitude, implying not just a passive state of being strong but an active, God-empowered posture of resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
* **Courage (Hebrew, _ʼâmats'_):** This primitive root means "to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage); confirm, be courageous (of good courage, stedfastly minded, strong, stronger)." Often paired with _châzaq_, it emphasizes the mental and spiritual fortitude required to face daunting tasks without shrinking back. It speaks to the inner boldness and steadfastness of mind necessary to act decisively, complementing the active resolve of _châzaq_. The combination forms a powerful hendiadys, emphasizing comprehensive inner and outer resolve.
* **Go (Hebrew, _hâlak'_):** This primitive root, akin to יָלַךְ, means "to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively); (all) along, apace, behave (self), come, (on) continually, be conversant, depart." In the phrase "he it is that doth go with thee," it highlights God's active, personal, and continuous accompaniment. It's not merely a promise of distant oversight but of intimate, guiding presence, implying that God is actively moving alongside His people, leading the way.
* **Fail (Hebrew, _râphâh'_):** This primitive root means "to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative); abate, cease, consume, draw (toward evening), faint, (be) feeble, forsake, idle, leave, let alone (go, down), (be) slack, stay, be still, be slothful, (be) weak(-en)." In this context, it speaks of God never slackening His grip, weakening His support, or becoming negligent concerning His people. It assures a steadfastness that will not diminish or become lax, guaranteeing His unfailing commitment.
* **Forsake (Hebrew, _ʻâzab'_):** This primitive root means "to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc.; commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse." It conveys the idea of complete withdrawal, abandonment, or severance of relationship. The promise that God will not _ʻâzab_ His people is a profound assurance of His enduring presence and covenant commitment, signifying that He will never turn away from them, even when they face their greatest challenges or when they might feel most vulnerable.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Be strong and of a good courage":** This opening imperative is a direct, urgent command, addressed first to the entire nation of Israel and then, by extension, to Joshua. It is a dual call to both inner fortitude (courage) and outward resolve (strength). This command acknowledges the natural human tendency towards fear and apprehension when facing overwhelming odds (like the Canaanite nations) and actively counters it with a divine mandate for bravery, not based on self-reliance but on the subsequent promise of God's presence.
* **"fear not, nor be afraid of them":** This negative imperative reinforces the positive command to be strong and courageous. "Them" explicitly refers to the formidable and often terrifying inhabitants of Canaan whom Israel was about to confront in battle. This clause directly addresses and seeks to dispel the apprehension, terror, and potential paralysis that could grip the people, assuring them that their enemies, despite their perceived strength and numbers, are not to be feared because of the greater power at work.
* **"for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee":** This pivotal clause provides the foundational reason and the ultimate source for the commands preceding it. The Israelites' ability to be strong, courageous, and fearless is not inherent to them but is entirely derived from the active, personal, and leading presence of Yahweh, their covenant God. He is not merely observing from a distance but is actively accompanying them, leading the way into battle, into the land, and into their future, guaranteeing His active involvement.
* **"he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee":** This is a powerful, emphatic double negative promise, serving as the ultimate assurance of God's absolute and unwavering faithfulness and covenant loyalty. "Fail" implies a weakening of support, a letting go, or a diminishing of commitment, while "forsake" implies abandonment, desertion, or a complete withdrawal of presence. God guarantees that He will neither weaken His commitment nor withdraw His presence from His people, ensuring His perpetual support, loyalty, and steadfast care, regardless of the challenges they face.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 31:6 is rich in rhetorical and literary devices that amplify its message of divine assurance. The verse is dominated by **Imperative Language**, with direct commands such as "Be strong," "be of a good courage," "fear not," and "nor be afraid." These imperatives underscore the urgency and divine authority of Moses' final words. The verse also employs striking **Repetition** and **Parallelism**, particularly in the paired phrases "Be strong and of a good courage" and "fear not, nor be afraid." This creates a powerful, memorable, and rhythmically impactful exhortation, driving home the central message. The negative commands "fear not, nor be afraid" function as a **Litotes**, emphasizing the positive assurance of God's active presence and unwavering support by negating the opposite, undesirable state of fear. Furthermore, the two clauses "he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" form a strong **Merism**, encompassing the full spectrum of God's steadfast loyalty—He will neither weaken His grip nor abandon His people entirely. The entire verse can also be observed as a subtle **Chiasm** (A-B-B'-A'): A (command to courage and fearlessness), B (reason for courage: God goes with you), B' (God will not fail you), A' (God will not forsake you), thereby structurally reinforcing the central idea that God's unwavering presence and faithfulness are the sole basis for human courage and confidence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 31:6 offers a profound theological statement about the very character of God and the nature of His covenant relationship with humanity. It reveals God as eternally faithful, actively present, and the ultimate, inexhaustible source of strength and courage for His people. This promise is not contingent upon human merit, perfect obedience, or inherent strength, but rather rests entirely on God's unchanging character and His immutable covenant loyalty. It powerfully underscores the foundational biblical principle that true courage is not the absence of fear or the presence of human might, but rather the active presence of unwavering faith in a God who promises to never leave nor abandon His own. This foundational truth about God's steadfastness and His commitment to His people is woven throughout the entire tapestry of Scripture, forming the bedrock of trust and hope for believers across all generations and circumstances.

* [Joshua 1:9](/joshua/1-9 "Joshua 1:9 - God's Command to Joshua")
* [Psalm 27:1](/psalms/27-1 "Psalm 27:1 - The Lord is My Light and Salvation")
* [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God Will Never Leave You")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 31:6 remains a timeless beacon of hope and a powerful, enduring call to faith for believers in every age. In a world perpetually fraught with uncertainty, personal challenges, and daunting, seemingly insurmountable tasks, this verse serves as a vital reminder that our true strength, courage, and resilience are not self-generated or found within our limited human capabilities. Instead, they flow directly from the unfailing, omnipotent presence of the Almighty God. This verse challenges us to confront our fears head-on, not by denying their existence or pretending they don't affect us, but by consciously and deliberately choosing to trust in God's unwavering promise. Whether we are facing a new career path, navigating a difficult medical diagnosis, struggling through a complex relational conflict, or simply grappling with the general anxieties of daily life, this verse calls us to step forward with profound confidence and resolute trust. It assures us that the very same God who miraculously led Israel through the perilous wilderness and triumphantly into the Promised Land is actively, personally, and intimately with us today, committed to our ultimate well-being, and will never abandon us. It invites us to find deep rest and peace in His faithfulness, allowing His constant, abiding presence to transform our apprehension into an unshakeable, courageous trust.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "giants" or "unknown territories" are you currently facing in your life that might be causing fear or apprehension?**
* **How does the profound promise "the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee" fundamentally change your perspective on these challenges?**
* **In what tangible, practical ways can you "be strong and of a good courage" this week, consciously relying on God's promised presence rather than your own limited strength?**
* **How does the absolute assurance that God "will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" impact your ability to trust Him fully during times of waiting, uncertainty, or profound difficulty?**

### FAQ

**What does "fail thee, nor forsake thee" mean in practical terms for believers today?**

Answer: In practical terms, the powerful promise "he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" means that God will never relinquish His commitment to you, nor will He abandon you in times of profound need. It signifies that He will never withdraw His steadfast support, His unconditional love, or His abiding presence from your life. This divine assurance guarantees His constant provision, His unerring guidance, and His unwavering faithfulness, even when circumstances appear bleak, when you feel utterly alone, or when your own strength gives way. It means He will always uphold His covenant with you, just as He promised ancient Israel He would lead them into the Promised Land and never leave them. This profound truth is powerfully echoed and affirmed in the New Testament, such as in [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God Will Never Leave You"), which directly quotes this very promise from Deuteronomy to encourage believers to live contentedly and be free from the love of money, because they can trust that God is always with them, providing for their needs.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 31:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While initially a direct promise to the nation of Israel under the Old Covenant, the assurance that God "will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" culminates in the New Covenant through Christ. Jesus is the very embodiment of God's promised presence, for He is literally "God with us," the Immanuel, as prophesied and fulfilled in [Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us"). His incarnation means that God Himself literally "went with us" into the human experience, fully sharing our weaknesses, trials, and temptations, yet without sin. The supreme demonstration of God's unfailing commitment and His refusal to abandon humanity is seen in Christ's atoning death on the cross and His glorious resurrection, through which He secured eternal life and an unbreakable, everlasting relationship for all who place their faith in Him. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, Christ continually fulfills the promise of divine presence, assuring His followers, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age" ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission")). Believers are now inextricably "in Christ," a spiritual union so profound and secure that nothing "will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" ([Romans 8:39](/romans/8-39 "Romans 8:39 - God's Unbreakable Love")). Thus, the courage and fearlessness commanded in Deuteronomy 31:6 are now empowered by the indwelling Spirit of Christ, who guarantees God's eternal faithfulness and presence, ensuring that He will never fail or forsake His redeemed people, no matter the circumstance.

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

Joshua 1:9

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Ephesians 6:10

¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Psalms 27:14

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

1 Chronicles 28:20

And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do [it]: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, [even] my God, [will be] with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.

Isaiah 41:10

¶ Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Luke 12:32

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

2 Timothy 2:1

¶ Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.