A Critical Spirit

After forty years in the wilderness, the Israelites finally approached the Promised Land. But two and a half of the tribes asked to stay on the east of the Jordan. Moses agreed, provided they helped other tribes in their conquests.

After these promises had been fulfilled, Joshua allowed them to return to these lands. Everything seemed fine until it became known that the returning tribes had built an altar east of the Jordan. The other tribes became so concerned that they prepared for war, accusing the two and a half tribes of committing an “unfaithful act” (v. 16).

Tragedy was avoided when these eastern tribes explained that they were not being unfaithful. The altar was just a witness to remind future generations of the true God.

How easy it can be to act like the accusing tribes, to rush to judgment, and to criticize without knowing the facts. To prevent disputes like these, Jesus said that we were to make every effort to solve conflicts in private. We should address issues in public only after private options have been exhausted (Matthew 18:15-18).

Today, seek to learn from the conflict between the Israelites. Follow the teaching of Jesus. Before you rush to judgment, be sure to learn the facts. If you have questions, don’t assume the worst but seek to know the truth. And remember, those who are merciful will obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7).