How can we ensure our actions align with God's commands in Joshua 22:11? Verse in Focus “Then the Israelites heard it said, ‘Look, the sons of Reuben, the sons of Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an altar opposite the land of Canaan, at Geliloth by the Jordan on the Israelite side.’” (Joshua 22:11) Setting the Scene • God had commanded one central altar for sacrifices (Deuteronomy 12:13-14). • Word spreads that the eastern tribes built another altar; the rest of Israel fears disobedience (Joshua 22:12). • The concern highlights a timeless question: How do we keep our actions squarely within God’s revealed will? Why Alignment Matters • God takes worship and obedience seriously (Leviticus 10:1-2). • Disobedience affects the whole community (Joshua 22:18). • Love for God is expressed through keeping His commands (John 14:15). Practical Steps to Stay Aligned Know God’s Word • Immerse yourself daily in Scripture (Psalm 119:11). • Let “all Scripture” train and correct you (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Check Your Motives • The eastern tribes built their altar “as a witness” not for sacrifice (Joshua 22:26-27). • Examine why you are doing something, not just what you are doing (1 Samuel 16:7). Seek God-Centered Accountability • Israel sent a delegation headed by Phinehas to investigate (Joshua 22:13-14). • Welcome mature believers who will lovingly question and refine your decisions (Proverbs 27:17). Communicate Clearly • Misunderstanding almost led to war (Joshua 22:12). • Speak truthfully and promptly to avoid confusion (Ephesians 4:25). Test Everything by Scripture • The test was simple: does this altar violate God’s command? • Evaluate plans against clear biblical teaching before acting (Acts 17:11). Pursue Unity without Compromise • Unity mattered so much that both sides talked face-to-face (Joshua 22:32-34). • Strive for peace while holding firm to truth (Ephesians 4:3). Live as a Witness • The altar was named “A Witness Between Us that the LORD is God” (Joshua 22:34). • Let your obedience point others to the Lord (Matthew 5:16). Warnings to Heed • Good intentions do not cancel disobedience—know the command first (1 Chronicles 13:9-10). • Pride blinds; stay teachable (1 Corinthians 10:12). • Private choices ripple publicly; sin is never isolated (Joshua 22:20). Encouragement for Today When we saturate ourselves in God’s Word, examine our hearts, welcome accountability, communicate openly, and prioritize unity in truth, we walk the safe path of obedience. Just as Israel averted disaster by returning quickly to God’s standard in Joshua 22, we too can ensure our actions faithfully echo His commands—and become living witnesses that “the LORD is God.” |
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