God brought Israel to the Promised Land so they could teach the nations how to honor God and come back home to the Garden of Eden. Instead, they used their newfound power and freedom to pursue selfish gain. For 800 years, Israel tried (and failed) to follow God's laws. During that time, they became more and more focused on personal gain than following God. Eventually, God disciplined his people with exile. Despite their failure, the story wasn't over... and that gives us hope today!