Sure, my small boys look and say things cute most of the time, but when no one else but mom and dad are around they argue with each other. Mom and dad have to step in to help resolve the issue.
Joshua has just sent the three tribes that were in the east side of the Jordan back to their families. Maybe, you remember how those tribes made a decision to stay on the east side, but Moses told them when Israel went to fight for the land, they were commanded by the Lord to help the other tribes. Now, they have obeyed, and Joshua instructs them to go back to their family and blesses them as they are sent off.
Quickly after battle there comes a rift between the eastern tribes and the western tribes because of this altar. The Lord has commanded them to only offer sacrifices in Shiloh and it is heard the eastern tribes have built an altar. Israel sends out heads up the tribes to defend true worship of the Lord. After a conversation back and forth the eastern tribes find out there is no ill intent but a heart for generations of the western tribes to know all the Lord has done for them during this time.
“Then they came to the children of Reuben, to the children of Gad, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, to the land of Gilead, and they spoke with them, saying,” Joshua 22:15
Here’s what we need to notice. Israel confronted the potential offending party. Israel listened to the other side of the argument. The three tribes also listened to and understand the other tribes’ perspective.
““The Lord God of gods, the Lord God of gods, He knows, and let Israel itself know—if it is in rebellion, or if in treachery against the Lord, do not save us this day.” Joshua 22:22
What do you do when you are offended and think you are on the right side of the argument? When is the last time you tried to resolve an issue with someone else by talking TO THEM instead of talking to others ABOUT THEM? Often, we can get to the bottom of the situation if we are willing to confront in love and listen to each other. Bloodshed was saved this day and the Lord was glorified because peace was pursued. My small boys haven’t reached the maturity to work things out thru listening and communication just yet… have you? Go to that brother or sister. Be willing to listen. A lot of issues in life between people could be resolved quickly with a willing heart to confront in love and listen to the other’s perspective.
- To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.