When they came to Geliloth near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan. And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelites side, the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war agianst them.
The whole assembly of the Lord says: 'How could you break faith with the God of Israel like this? How could you trun away from the Lord and build yourselves an altar in rebellion against him now?'
That is why we said, 'Let us get ready and build an altar-but not for burnt offerings or sacrifices.' On the contrary, it is to be a witness between us and you and the generations that follow, that we will worship the Lord at his sanctuary with our burnt offerings, sacrifices and fellowship offerings. Then in the future your descendants will not be able to say to ours, 'You have no share in the Lord.'
"Now then," said Joshua, "throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel,"
From Joshua 22 & 24 NIV
Here Israel perceives impropriety in worship and take immediate action in response to their perceptions about this new altar near the Jordan. Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manassah respond with respect to God and Israel; humility acknowledging God's power and knowledge of their purpose, and honesty. The Altar's purpose as a witness between the Transjordan tribes and Israel; now pointing to worship and sacrifice at his sanctuary; and in the future between future generations is then appreciated by Israel. As a result, a misunderstanding is resolved.
Misunderstandings can occur for several reasons. We consider our actions based on our motivations. Others consider our actions based upon their perceptions. If there is impropriety in worship, we are compelled to take prompt action to correct the impropriety, so that we do not veer to the left or to the right, but rather stay on the path. Israel prepares for war based on a perception. Before an attack, there is communiction. Here this communication brings unity and peace and strengthens relationships.
Some people get some of their exercise by jumping to conculsions. Before jumping to any conclusions, do some research.
Jesus has done much work in justifying us so that we can approach God thru him.
What kinds of divisions have you seen in the community, at church or in your home by misunderstanding or misperception?
What actions did you take in response to attempt to resolve the misunderstanding or misperception?
Pray for the Spirit to give you the words to help resolve misunderstandings and restore unity in the community, at chuch, and in your family.
In Christ,
David P
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