9 I've commanded you to be strong and brave. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.
10 Joshua ordered the tribal leaders
11 to go through the camp and tell everyone:In a few days we will cross the River Jordan to take the land that the Lord our God is giving us. So prepare as much food as you'll need for the march into the land.
12 Joshua told the men of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh:
13-14 The Lord's servant Moses said that the Lord our God has given you land here on the east side of the River Jordan, where you could live in peace. Your wives and children and your animals can stay here in the land Moses gave you. But all of you who can serve in our army must pick up your weapons and lead the men of the other tribes across the River Jordan. They are your relatives, so you must help them
15 conquer the land that the Lord is giving them. The Lord will give peace to them as he has given peace to you, and then you can come back and settle here in the land that Moses promised you.
16 The men answered:We'll cross the River Jordan and help our relatives. We'll fight anywhere you send us.