What does Judges 2:22 mean?
Because of Israel's repeated unfaithfulness to Him with other gods, the Lord has declared that He will not drive out Israel's enemies. Had they been faithful, and obedient (Deuteronomy 20:16–18), they could have conquered all the land promised to their ancestors (Joshua 1:14). Instead, the Lord will leave those enemies thriving in the land of Canaan, so they can test Israel. Some will live among Israel in captured lands, tempting the people to idolatry and sin (Judges 3:5–6). Others will remain in their un-disturbed kingdoms, launching raids and war against the tribes of Israel (Judges 3:1–4).The "testing" performed here is really more of a "proving." God knows exactly what the results will be. Creating these opportunities, however, makes it clear whether the Israelites will turn to Him when their enemies torment them—or if they will remain unfaithful. The Lord will leave hostile nations intact to test—really, to demonstrate—Israel's lack of repentance over their sinful ways.