26. Rahab and the Explorers

Joshua 1 – 3

Joshua was the leader of the Israelites. God gave him a promise: “Lead the people into the land, and I will give you victory over everyone who lives there. Obey me and have courage, and I will be with you everywhere you go.”

Joshua listened to God’s promise and so he did as God said.

Joshua sent two men to explore the land. They went secretly to Jericho, a very big city with a very, very big wall. But the king of Jericho found out they were there –and he sent soldiers to catch them.

Rahab lived in Jericho. She had heard how God had rescued the Israelites from Egypt, and she knew he was the real God. She decided to hide the explorers from the soldiers.

“When we take over Jericho, we will protect you and your family,” the explorers promised her. Then they escaped back to Joshua. They were safe.

Joshua and all the Israelites crossed the River Jordan. God split the river into two water-walls and they walked across on a dry path. At long, long, long last, God’s people were standing in the land that God had promised to give them.