Joshua 1:1–2:1
After Moses died, God chose Joshua. “You must take the place of Moses and lead Israel. Don’t wait. Lead them across the Jordan River. I will give them the land I promised to their ancestors. Be strong and brave. I will be with you just like I was with Moses.”
Then Joshua gave orders to Israel’s leaders: “Tell everyone to get ready. In three days we are going to cross the Jordan. You will take the land God has given to you.” Israel moved its camp to the east bank of the Jordan River.
At that time of year, the river was overflowing its banks. Only a strong man could swim across, and Israel had no boats. Across the river, the people could see the strong walls of Jericho. Before they could take the land, they had to take this city.
Joshua chose two brave and wise men to be spies. “Go find out all you can about Jericho and the land beyond.” So these men swam the river and entered Jericho. They spent that night in the house of a woman named Rahab.
Questions: Who became the new leader of Israel? Why would it be hard to cross the Jordan River?