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Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Thoughts on Deuteronomy 31:6

Deuteronomy 31:6 offers one of Scripture's most powerful promises: God's constant presence with His people. Moses spoke these words to Israel as they faced the daunting task of entering the Promised Land without him. The command to 'be strong and courageous' isn't based on their own abilities, but on the certainty that God Himself goes with them. This isn't mere optimism—it's confidence rooted in God's faithful character.

The promise that God will 'never leave you nor forsake you' appears throughout Scripture and is even quoted in Hebrews 13:5 for New Testament believers. Whatever challenges you're facing today—whether intimidating circumstances, uncertain futures, or overwhelming obstacles—you don't face them alone. God's presence isn't conditional on your performance or dependent on your feelings. He has committed Himself to you.

Practically, this means you can step forward in faith even when you feel inadequate. Courage isn't the absence of fear; it's moving forward despite fear because you trust in God's presence and power. When anxiety whispers that you're on your own, remember this promise: the Creator of the universe walks with you, and He will never abandon you.

Prayer for Deuteronomy 31:6

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to never leave or forsake us. When we face situations that seem too big, remind us that You go with us into every challenge and uncertainty. Help us to be strong and courageous, not because of our own strength, but because we trust in Your faithful presence. Replace our fear with confidence in Your power and love. May we walk forward today knowing that we are never alone, for You are always with us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Questions
What does Deuteronomy 31:6 mean in its original setting?

Deuteronomy 31:6 is Moses’ encouragement to Israel as they prepare to enter the land without him, calling them to strength because God’s presence will not change. Source Source The verse grounds courage not in self-confidence but in confidence that the Lord goes with His people and will not abandon them in the wilderness-to-promise journey. Source Source That same theme—God’s provision calling for human faith—echoes through Israel’s story when circumstances feel bigger than their strength. Source

How can I live out Deuteronomy 31:6 when I feel anxious about the future?

Deuteronomy 31:6 invites you to face the future with steady courage because God’s presence is the true reason you don’t have to be paralyzed by fear. Source Source One practical way to apply it is to replace “what if” thinking with trust-filled obedience in today’s responsibilities, even when tomorrow feels unclear. Source Source This kind of courage grows as you remember God’s track record of protecting His people when the odds look impossible. Source

Does Deuteronomy 31:6 promise that believers won’t face hardship or danger?

Deuteronomy 31:6 does not promise an easy path, but it does promise God’s faithful presence and steadfastness when His people must move forward through real challenges. Source Scripture’s examples of deliverance show that God can intervene decisively, even when the situation looks overwhelming and human strength is not enough. Source At the same time, God’s covenant warnings and blessings remind us that faithfulness matters, and courage is often expressed through obedient perseverance rather than immediate comfort. Source

How does Deuteronomy 31:6 connect to God’s blessing and assurance over His people?

Deuteronomy 31:6 reassures God’s people that His presence goes with them, which is the foundation for living with courage instead of fear. Source That assurance harmonizes with the Priestly Blessing, where God’s favor and peace are spoken over the community as they walk under His name. Source It also fits the broader covenant pattern that trust and obedience align God’s people with His good purposes, even as they navigate consequences and responsibilities. Source

Summary of Deuteronomy 31

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