Joshua 1 shows us how the Lord will bring his people into the land of promise. God will raise up an obedient servant and will empower his servant to accomplish his purposes. That is the key idea we find in verses 5–9.
As we read these words, we should bear in mind that they are primarily spoken to Joshua and not to the people of Israel. The Lord is busy speaking directly to Joshua (Joshua 1:1). Joshua is the one whom God will not leave or forsake (Joshua 1:5). Joshua is the one who must be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:6–7, Joshua 1:9). Joshua must lead the people over the Jordan (Joshua 1:2). He must obey everything commanded in God’s Law (Joshua 1:7). He must cause God’s people to inherit the land of promise (Joshua 1:6). Joshua is the servant whom God has raised up to fight on behalf of his people and bring them into the Promised Land.
5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you.