Deuteronomy 2:30
But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass by him: for the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as appeareth this day. But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass by him: for the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as appeareth this day.
Deuteronomy 2:30 belongs to the time when Israel turned north toward the promised land after passing to the south of Edom over a vast elevated plain swept by cool breezes. They crossed the brook Zered and passed to the east of Moab, whom they were commanded by God not to distress nor contend with in battle because He had given Ar to the children of Lot. The same direction was given concerning the Ammonites as descendants of Lot.
After crossing the Arnon, Israel advanced against Sihon in battle, won the engagement, and soon took possession of the country of the Amorites. That victory over Sihon was not won by Israel alone but by the Captain of the Lord's host vanquishing the enemies of His people. The same divine victory would have been given thirty-eight years before had Israel trusted in God.