It happened after three days, that the officers went through the midst of the camp;
This crossing of the Jordan would be, for Israel, AN EXTREME ACT OF FAITH.  It was one thing to follow God's Word into the Red Sea, for their facing the vengeful armies of Pharaoh was the only alternative for not doing so, but here, they would cross into hostile country to face fortified cities with no immediate hope of retreat on their part.  There would be armies with chariots and fighting unto the death.  "Here a whole nation took the step to hazard their lives in total commitment to the Lord![13]  It was a tough generation indeed that followed Joshua into Canaan.  They were accustomed to hardship.  They were a lean, hardened, and determined group of people, disciplined to face and overcome any hardship.  What a contrast with their status 40 years earlier!