How does Joshua 22:6 encourage us to support and encourage fellow believers today? Context that Frames the Verse • After years of united conquest, the Transjordan tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh) had fulfilled their pledge to help Israel secure the land west of the Jordan (Joshua 1:12-18). • Joshua now releases them to return home: “So Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their tents.” (Joshua 22:6). • The moment is marked by a deliberate act of blessing before separation—reminding us that godly encouragement is never optional; it is essential. What Joshua’s Blessing Teaches Us • Blessing affirms faithfulness. Joshua publicly recognizes their obedience and sacrifice. People need to hear that their labor in the Lord is noticed (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:58). • Blessing prepares for distance. Physical separation can weaken ties. Joshua’s prayerful commendation creates a spiritual bridge that distance cannot break. • Blessing is spoken, not merely felt. Words carry power: “The tongue has the power of life and death” (Proverbs 18:21). Joshua uses his to impart life. Timeless Principles for Supporting Fellow Believers • Express gratitude promptly—don’t postpone encouragement. • Affirm specific acts of faithfulness; avoid vague compliments. • Send people out with a reminder of God’s presence and promises, not just their own abilities. • Recognize transitions (moves, new ministries, graduations) as prime opportunities to speak blessing. Practical Ways to Bless Today 1. A quick text, email, or handwritten note spotlighting a brother’s or sister’s recent act of service. 2. Laying hands on missionaries or church members before they relocate, echoing Joshua’s pattern. 3. Public acknowledgment during a gathering—simple but powerful: “We thank the Lord for your faithfulness.” 4. Intentional follow-up: calendaring reminders to pray for and contact those who have been “sent away.” 5. Sharing material resources when believers return to challenging contexts (Joshua 22:8 models this with gifts). Scriptures that Echo the Same Call • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) • “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not forsaking our meeting together…but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as you are already doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • “If you have any encouragement in Christ…then make my joy complete by being like-minded.” (Philippians 2:1-2) Living It Out This Week • Identify one believer who recently served faithfully; speak a specific blessing to them. • Schedule a brief visit or call with someone who has moved away or stepped into a new ministry role. • Review your speech patterns—replace casual chatter with intentional, Scripture-saturated encouragement. • Pray daily that God would make your church family a community where blessings flow as naturally as conversation. Just as Joshua’s blessing sent the eastern tribes home strengthened and honored, our timely words and actions can infuse fellow believers with courage for their next steps in God’s plan. |
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