Be Strong and Courageous: Crossing the Jordan into God’s Promise | Joshua 1–4

Welcome to Day 58 of Word for Word: The Bible. In this episode, we begin the book of Joshua with a complete, word-for-word reading of Joshua chapters 1–4. After the death of Moses, leadership passes to Joshua, and the people of Israel stand at the edge of the Promised Land. What follows is a powerful moment of transition, courage, and renewed trust in God’s promises. Today’s reading includes: The LORD commissioning Joshua and commanding him to be strong and courageous God’s promise to remain with Joshua as He was with Moses Joshua preparing the people to cross the Jordan River Rahab hiding the spies and demonstrating courageous faith The scarlet cord as a sign of mercy and deliverance The ark of the covenant leading the way into the Jordan The miraculous stopping of the river at flood stage Israel crossing on dry ground opposite Jericho The twelve memorial stones set up at Gilgal as a lasting reminder These chapters mark the beginning of a new era for Israel. The same God who parted the Red Sea now stops the Jordan River, showing that His power and faithfulness have not changed. Joshua’s leadership begins not with military strategy, but with obedience to God’s Word and courage rooted in His presence. The memorial stones serve as a reminder for future generations: when God moves, His people are to remember. Strength and courage are not self-generated — they flow from trusting the Lord who goes before us. Each episode of Word for Word: The Bible includes: A brief introduction and closing reflection A complete word-for-word reading of the assigned chapters A prayer to begin and end our time in Scripture Thank you for joining this journey through the Bible, one chapter at a time. If this series has been helpful to you, please consider subscribing and leaving a review. And feel free to share it with someone who may want to walk through Scripture together. I’ll see you tomorrow.