24. So their children went into the land and took over.The Canaanites lived there.But you defeated them for our ancestors.You handed over to them the Canaanites, their kings and the people of the land.Our ancestors could do what they wanted with them.
25. Our ancestors captured strong, walled cities and fertile land.They took over houses full of good things.They took over wells that were already dug.They took vineyards, olive trees and many fruit trees.They ate until they were full and became fat.They enjoyed your great goodness.
26. “But they were disobedient and turned against you.They ignored your teachings.Your prophets warned them to come back to you.But they killed those prophets.And they spoke against you.
27. So you allowed their enemies to defeat them.Their enemies treated them badly.But in this time of trouble our ancestors cried out to you.And you heard from heaven.You had great mercy.You gave them saviors who saved them from the power of their enemies.
28. But as soon as they had rest,they again did what was evil.So you left them to their enemieswho ruled over them.But they cried out to you again.And you heard from heaven.Because of your mercy, you saved them again and again.
29. You warned them to return to obeying your teachings.But they were proud. They did not obey your commands.If a man obeys your laws, he will live.But they sinned against your laws.They were stubborn and disobedient.They would not listen.
30. You were patient with them for many years.You warned them by your Spirit through the prophets.But they did not pay attention.So you allowed them to be defeated by other countries.
31. But because your mercy is great, you did not kill them all.You did not leave them.You are a kind and merciful God.