Joshua 22 describes the return of Reuben and Gad to their inheritance east of the Jordon. Before crossing over they build an altar. The rest of the tribes of Israel hear about it and they take action.
They intend to destroy them for this apparent breach of faith. They confront them about this altar. It appears to be in violation to God’s law but upon explanation they find out it was not meant to be used for sacrificing. It was to be a witness between them and those across the Jordon for their children.
So, they saw an apparent violation. They nor we know the hearts and minds of others. We must not assume nor refuse to listen to reason. The humility in the response from those who built the altar defuses the tension. They knew why they had built it and they understood the claim against them. But both sides talked it out face to face in humility and resolved this major issue.
Communicate. Be humble. Listen. Ask questions. Do not assume. Respond faithfully to the information you are given.
Joshua 21:45 (ESV): 45 Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass.
I don’t know how to live if this were not always true. I guess I would just live for myself as though nothing better was coming. But it is true and I trust the Lord and I will gladly listen to him.
Psalm 78:42 They did not remember his power or the day when he redeemed them from the foe
Everyday we are faced with an impossible task of following Christ. We cannot do this alone. We must depend on the Lord and remember that he is all powerful and the only absolute sovereign. There’s nothing that we will face today that he doesn’t have the power and control over. Nothing. Therefore we must trust him and believe that he delights to help us.
The Word Is Not Imprisoned 