The Israelites must pass through the lands of five other nations in succession on their way to Canaan. We find valuable lessons for us in each encounter. However, there are troubling passages to wrestle with as well. How could a good and loving God “harden” the spirit of Sihon, and then tell His people to kill all the Amorites (including women and children)? We draw from other passages in Scripture and insights from early Christians to find good answers to classic questions.