FOR DISCUSSION

• IN what ways can fear rooted in past pain distort a person’s ability to recognize or receive something good in the present? How do you see that in Israel’s story?

• WHY do you think God remained in the wilderness with Israel instead of forcing them into the promise before they were ready? What does that reveal about God’s character?

• WHAT is the difference between God delaying something out of punishment and God delaying something out of mercy? How does Israel’s story help us discern that difference?

• WHAT might have happened if Israel had entered the Promised Land without first unlearning the fear and worldview shaped by bondage?