Scripture
Joshua 22:26-27
26 Therefore we said, `Let us build an altar, not for burnt offering or for sacrifice; 27 rather it shall be a witness between us and you and between our generations after us, that we are to perform the service of the LORD before Him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices and with our peace offerings, so that your sons will not say to our sons in time to come, You have no portion in the LORD.”‘
Observation
Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh had great intentions, but terrible communication. They had built a replica altar in order to confirm their commitment to the one true God, but their lack of communication about the project nearly caused a civil war!
Good intentions are fine: Good communication is even better!
Application
I can empathize with these tribes! In marriage, in ministry, and in friendship–I can think back on incidents when I had good intentions, but caused hurt or frustration through my lack of communication. When others harshly judge my actions, it’s easy to react defensively–but often the first thing I need to do is to honestly consider whether my own communication was adequate.
God loves me–and so He tells me so. If God Himself finds it necessary to communicate with intentionality, then how much more must I do the same!
Prayer
God, help me to communicate well today! Help me not to make assumptions about what others know or think, but instead value them enough to remove the assumptions and communicate clearly!
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