The Creator Reveals Himself-To Our Benefit - Conclusion of On to a Promised Land

Before long, Israel approached Canaan, which the Bible calls the Promised Land. It was populated by powerful people steeped in morally degrading practices.  The Creator had allowed 400 years to pass without interfering with them, but now he justly chose to turn the land over to ancient Israel.  (Genesis 15:6; see also "A Jealous God-In What Sense?'" pages 132-3.)  In preparation Moses sent 12 spies into the land. Ten of them showed a lack of faith in Jehovah's saving power.  Their report moved the people to murmur against God and conspire to return to Egypt. As a result God sentenced the people to wander in the wilderness for 40 years. -Number 14:1-4, 26-34. 

What did that judgment accomplish?  Before his death, Moses admonished the sons of Israel to remember those years  which Jehovah had humbled them.  Moses told them:  "You well know with your own heart that just as a man corrects his son, Jehovah your God was correcting you."  (Deuteronomy 8:1-5)  Despite their having acted insultingly toward him, Jehovah has sustained them, demonstrating that they were dependent on him.  For example, they survived because he provided the nation with manna, an edible substance that tasted like cakes made with honey.  Clearly, they should have learned much from their wilderness experience. It should have proved the importance of obeying their merciful God and depending on him. -Exodus 16:13-16, 31; 34:6, 7. 

After Moses' death, God commissioned Joshua to lead Israel.  This valiant and loyal man brought the nation into Canaan and courageously embarked on the conquest of the land.  Within a short period, Joshua defeated 31 kings and occupied most of the Promised Land.   You can find this exciting history in the book of Joshua.

Next time: The Creator Reveals  Himself-To Our Benefit - Rule Without a Human King

From the book Is There a Creator That Cares About You?