Scripture Text: Joshua 22:10-34
And they came to the people of Reuben, the people of Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, in the land of Gilead, and they said to them, “Thus says the whole congregation of the Lord, ‘What is this breach of faith that you have committed against the God of Israel in turning away this day from following the Lord by building yourselves an altar this day in rebellion against the Lord?
Joshua 22:15-16
The reason why the people of Israel gathered at Shiloh (9 1/2 tribes) is because they planned to go to war against the tribe of Reuben, Gad and half-tribe of Manasseh (2 1/2 tribes) who built a huge and beautiful altar intended for the Lord. The former accused them of breach of faith, apostasy, and rebellion against the God of Israel. However, the whole congregation of Israel sent first Phinehas and 10 clan leaders to confirm if the accusation was true or not.
When the delegations led by Phinehas heard the words from the tribe of Reuben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manasseh (vv.22-29), they were amazed, satisfied, and happy because truly the Lord allowed the people of Reuben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manasseh to build the altar, and they did not commit any sin against the Lord and to the people of Israel.
Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, said to the people of Reuben and the people of Gad and the people of Manasseh, “Today we know that the Lord is in our midst, because you have not committed this breach of faith against the Lord. Now you have delivered the people of Israel from the hand of the Lord." (Joshua 22:31)
Finally, the people of Israel and the people from the tribe of Reuben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manasseh were all happy—they thanked, praised and blessed the Lord. Then, the people called the altar witness, “For,” they said, “it is a witness between us that the Lord truly is God.” (v. 34)
Truly, God is so good, His only desire for His people through our Lord Jesus Christ is to be righteous in His eyes. He really protects His people from their accusers. As the Scripture says;
Who will then accuse God's chosen people? God himself declares them not guilty!
Romans 8:33
Reflect
What will you do if your brother in the faith accuses you of something that is not true? Will you declare war against him?
Remember
The title of being accuser is only for Satan! Therefore, as true believer and follower of Christ, do not attempt to accuse your brethren in the faith if you really love them as your neighbors, including the unbelievers.
Read
Job 2:2; Romans 8:33; Luke 10:27
Pray
Dear God, I ask the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to protect me from the attack of adversaries. Guide me also not to accuse my brothers and sisters in Christ to avoid any conflict especially in the church. God, I know You hate discord and wrong accusations, and "accuser" is a title meant only for the enemy. Therefore Father, I fervently pray for Your guidance through the Holy Spirit that I may maintain peace within the kingdom people, and even beyond, for Your Name's sake. in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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