Jos 1:18 | MHM | STEP | v. 18 : The people made a strong law. They said that anyone who disobeyed Joshua’s commands or rebelled against him would be put to death (Joshua 1:18 ). In times of war, strict rules are very important. If such a rule had existed in Moses’s time, it might have stopped some of the rebellions. This law also reminds us of God’s command that anyone who would not listen to the leader He appointed would be punished (Deuteronomy 18:19 ). Finally, the people encouraged Joshua. They told him, Only be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:18 ). They promised to support him by obeying him cheerfully and bravely. When followers are willing and ready to help, it gives strength to their leader. Joshua accepted this encouragement as a kindness, not an insult.

‏ Joshua 1:18

v. 18: The people made a strong law. They said that anyone who disobeyed Joshua’s commands or rebelled against him would be put to death (Joshua 1:18 ^a). In times of war, strict rules are very important. If such a rule had existed in Moses’s time, it might have stopped some of the rebellions. This law also reminds us of God’s command that anyone who would not listen to the leader He appointed would be punished (Deuteronomy 18:19 ^b).

Finally, the people encouraged Joshua. They told him, Only be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:18 ^c). They promised to support him by obeying him cheerfully and bravely. When followers are willing and ready to help, it gives strength to their leader. Joshua accepted this encouragement as a kindness, not an insult.