In this context, rest refers to the defeat of those enemies opposed to Israel’s settlement in the land of Canaan (Exodus 23:22).1 It is the fulfillment of promises made by God (Exodus 33:14; Deuteronomy 7:22–24; Deuteronomy 12:9–10), the gracious gift of God to his people after a long time of travelling (through the wilderness) and intense battles. This rest conveys the sense of relief from threats—a safe and happy arrival in the comfort of their home. It is a rest which all believers are still looking forward to today (Hebrews 4:1–11) as we await the final return of Jesus Christ2 when all of God’s enemies will be defeated (2 Thessalonians 1:6–9).
44 And the LORD gave them rest on every side just as he had sworn to their fathers. Not one of all their enemies had withstood them, for the LORD had given all their enemies into their hands.