Free printable Bible coloring page

Sent to Explore Canaan

Numbers 13:1–14:45

The Big Idea

Trusting the LORD can help us choose courage instead of letting fear lead us.

Print

The Bible Story

Joshua and Caleb Trust God

Numbers 13:1–20 describes the LORD directing Moses to send one leader from each Israelite tribe to explore Canaan. Moses sends twelve men, including Hoshea, whom he names Joshua, and Caleb. He tells them to observe the land, its people, towns, and produce, and to bring back information. The mission begins from the wilderness of Paran and includes the Negev and hill country. The leaders are sent to look carefully, not to fight. This moment introduces a larger test of whether Israel will trust the LORD rather than fearful reports. Joshua and Caleb are part of the group chosen for this important mission, while the other leaders should remain unnamed unless the passage identifies them. The scene emphasizes obedience to the LORD’s direction and the responsibility of leaders to report what they see truthfully.

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Numbers 13:1–20 describes the LORD directing Moses to send one leader from each Israelite tribe to explore Canaan. Moses sends twelve men, including Hoshea, whom he names Joshua, and Caleb. He tells them to observe the land, its people, towns, and produce, and to bring back information. The mission begins from the wilderness of Paran and includes the Negev and hill country. The leaders are sent to look carefully, not to fight. This moment introduces a larger test of whether Israel will trust the LORD rather than fearful reports. Joshua and Caleb are part of the group chosen for this important mission, while the other leaders should remain unnamed unless the passage identifies them. The scene emphasizes obedience to the LORD’s direction and the responsibility of leaders to report what they see truthfully.

Look closely

What children can notice

Moses gives instructions to twelve Israelite tribal leaders before they leave the wilderness to explore Canaan. Joshua and Caleb can be identified among the group, while the leaders listen attentively and prepare for careful observation rather than battle.

Talk together

Talk about it

  • Why did Moses send the leaders to explore Canaan?
  • How can we respond when fear makes a task seem too difficult?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page before teaching the wider account in Numbers 13–14. Invite children to notice the difference between careful observation and fear-driven conclusions. Keep discussion gentle and non-graphic, focusing on courage, truthful reporting, obedience, and trusting the LORD. It can support family reading, Sunday school, classroom lessons, or homeschool activities.

Source note

From this passage

Numbers 13:1–20 · The Twelve Spies

Moses gives instructions to twelve Israelite tribal leaders before they leave the wilderness to explore Canaan. Joshua and Caleb can be identified among the group, while the leaders listen attentively and prepare for careful observation rather than battle.

Kingdom Coloring library

Search the whole kingdom

Gathering suggestions…