GOD SPEAKS TO HIS CHILDREN

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21. In the Promised Land

Before his death Moses named Joshua as his successor. He was to lead the Israelites into the land of Canaan, in which Abraham, Isaac and Jacob had lived. However, the tribes which lived in Canaan did not want the Israelites to enter the land. Under Joshua’s leadership the Israelites were faithful to God’s promise. They did not let themselves be driven away. Gradually they conquered the land. They built villages there and lived as farmers, like the Canaanites.

The Israelites were able to learn a great deal from the Canaanites: when to sow the grain and harvest the grapes, how to make the best tools, how to cook and how to dress. But there was one thing they were not allowed to imitate from the Canaanites if they were to remain faithful to the Covenant with God – they must not worship the gods of the Canaanites, nor serve them. The Israelites found it hard to keep this commandment. For the Canaanites had places of sacrifice throughout the land, on mountains and under tall trees, and they worshipped their gods there, praying for rain and a good harvest.

The Israelites discovered something new during this time: as long as they were faithful to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, he would give them blessing and protection. But when they were unfaithful they experienced suffering and hardship. However, when they returned to him, admitted their guilt and begged his forgiveness, then he would turn back to them once more and bless them.

(Jos; Jg)

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