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"The LORD, the Mighty One, is God! The LORD, the Mighty One, is God! He knows the truth, and may Israel know it, too! Joshua 22:22 NLT
Though scripture calls Christians to live in peace, we don’t always live up to God’s standard. Saved by His grace, we’re still fallen men in a broken world—often succumbing to the temptation to speak carelessly, judge unfairly, even consciously pursue advantage over others. When this happens, the ancient Israelites provide an example for moving forward in brotherhood.
After helping their countrymen fight for the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben and Gad, plus half the tribe of Manasseh, returned to Gilead, a region east of Canaan. They had specially requested this excellent pastureland.
Moses had sharply questioned their original request. Now, under Joshua, the two and a half tribes again raised eyebrows by building a replica of the Lord’s altar near the Jordan River. They were accused of turning from God through divisive worship.
The accused quickly called on God as their witness, then humbly explained that the altar was just a reminder to their descendants to worship at the one true altar with the whole Israelite community. Happily, the other tribes accepted the rationale in the spirit it was offered. A crisis was averted and fellowship restored.
As we face conflict, may we also look quickly to God, answer gently (Proverbs 15:1), and pursue restoration. The Lord will guide us into the brotherhood He desires.
Prayer: Father, temper my pride so I can live in peace with my brothers.
Though scripture calls Christians to live in peace, we don’t always live up to God’s standard. Saved by His grace, we’re still fallen men in a broken world—often succumbing to the temptation to speak carelessly, judge unfairly, even consciously pursue advantage over others. When this happens, the ancient Israelites provide an example for moving forward in brotherhood.
After helping their countrymen fight for the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben and Gad, plus half the tribe of Manasseh, returned to Gilead, a region east of Canaan. They had specially requested this excellent pastureland.
Moses had sharply questioned their original request. Now, under Joshua, the two and a half tribes again raised eyebrows by building a replica of the Lord’s altar near the Jordan River. They were accused of turning from God through divisive worship.
The accused quickly called on God as their witness, then humbly explained that the altar was just a reminder to their descendants to worship at the one true altar with the whole Israelite community. Happily, the other tribes accepted the rationale in the spirit it was offered. A crisis was averted and fellowship restored.
As we face conflict, may we also look quickly to God, answer gently (Proverbs 15:1), and pursue restoration. The Lord will guide us into the brotherhood He desires.
Prayer: Father, temper my pride so I can live in peace with my brothers.
