The Lord told Joshua, “Moses is dead. Now you will lead the people into the promised land. Be strong and obey my instructions, and I will be with you.”

Joshua sent two spies to Jericho, where they stayed with Rahab, a prostitute. When the king of Jericho asked for the spies, Rahab hid them and lied, saying they left before dark. She told the spies she knew God had given the land to Israel and asked for protection for her family.

The spies promised to spare Rahab’s family if she kept their visit secret and tied a scarlet cord in her window. Rahab helped them escape by lowering them from her window. After the city’s search ended, the spies returned and reported to Joshua that God had given them the land and the people feared them.

Joshua led the Israelites to the Jordan River and told them to follow the priests carrying the Ark of God. He assured them God would do great things and drive out their enemies. Joshua then selected twelve men, one from each tribe, and prepared the priests for the next day’s crossing.