Joshua 6:21; Deuteronomy 2:34; 3:6 OTBDC: How can God, holy, righteous, of love, all-powerful be justified in the destruction of cities and the killing of men, women, and young children?

The historical record reveals that the men, women, children, old and young of the Canaanite cities captured by the Israelites were to be reduced to complete destruction. (Num. 21:1-3, 34, 35; Josh 6:20-21; 8:21-27; 10:26-40; 11:10-14) This has rightly brought about concern from Christians that the Hebrew Old Testament seems to be inundated with a sense of cruelty and senseless slaughter. How would you answer?