Joshua 1
Explanation and Bible story for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 3-6)
The Explanation
Moses was gone. Old Moses, who talked to God, was not there anymore.
Joshua stood by the river. A big river, wide and wet. On the other side was a new land.
Joshua felt small. Maybe a little scared.
Then God spoke to Joshua. Not in a whisper. God said, "Get up, Joshua. Go across the river. I am giving you this land."
God said something else too. Something warm. "I will be with you. I will not leave you. Never."
What Does This Mean?
Joshua had a big job. A very big job. He had to lead all the people, across the water, into the land.
But Joshua was not alone. God was right there with him. Like a hand holding his hand.
God said, "Be strong. Be brave. Don't be afraid. Don't be scared."
Three times God said it. Be strong. Be strong. Be strong. Because Joshua needed to hear it again, and again, and again.
The Common Thread
God had promised this land long, long ago. To Abraham. To all the fathers before Joshua.
God does not forget His promises. Not ever. Not even after many years.
God was with Moses. Now God is with Joshua. And later, God sends Someone even greater to be with His people. His name is Jesus. Jesus said He would never leave either. Just like God told Joshua by the river.
For You
Joshua told the people to get food ready. Bread for the journey. In three days they would cross.
The people said, "We will do what you say. We will go where you send us."
They were not the boss. Joshua was not the boss. God was leading everyone.
Maybe you feel small sometimes too. Like the river is too big. Like the dark is too dark.
You can whisper what God told Joshua. "Be strong. Be brave." Because God is with you too, wherever you go. Even at night. Even when you are scared of the water, or the dark, or something new.
God does not leave. He stays close, like a warm hand around yours.
Talk About It
Joshua felt scared by the big river. What makes you feel scared sometimes?
God said "I will not leave you." Who holds your hand when you are scared?
Praying Together
Dear God, Thank You that You never leave. Make me strong and brave, like Joshua. Hold my hand when I am scared. Thank You that You are always near. Amen.
Questions about Joshua 1
Short answers for anyone reading about this for the first time.
What is Joshua 1 about?
What does Joshua 1 say?
What does Joshua 1 teach us about God?
What can toddlers learn from Joshua 1?
Why is Joshua 1 an important Bible story?
What others discovered
Be strong and courageous; for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them." Notice Joshua's courage was never just for himself. Others would walk into promises only if he kept walking. Someone is waiting on the other side of your obedience. Who inherits something if you stay afraid?
Reuben and Gad already had their land. Their families were safe, their cattle grazing east of the Jordan. They could have stayed. Instead: "you shall pass over before your brothers armed... and shall help them." Your rest was never meant to end the story. Who is still waiting for their inheritance while you enjoy yours?
Moses is dead. Joshua steps into shoes he never asked to fill, and God does not promise him Moses' gifts. He promises something better: "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not fail you nor forsake you." The strength was never in the man. It was in the One standing beside him. And He is still standing.
Looking for something for slightly older children?
We also have dedicated versions for elementary age (7-12) and teens (12 and up).
Open in the Children's Bible tool
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