A MISUNDERSTANDING

Read Joshua 22

Isn’t it amazing how fast we can jump to conclusions? For some people that is the only exercise they get. In this chapter, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh have crossed the Jordan back to the land which was given to them. They build an altar, not for sacrifices, but for a symbol to future generations that they are part of the Israelite nation.

But the other tribes hear about it and think they are setting up their own altar. So, they take off to confront and wage war, if necessary. The altar was called “Witness,” which in Hebrew is ed. An altar called Ed. Pardon me, but I just think that is funny.

TEACHING MOMENT

I promise you that your children are going to be the cause of or the victim of misunderstandings. There is just no way to avoid it. People see and hear what they want. Teaching our children to deal with these situations is an important skill to master. How should they react when they are falsely accused?

Peace and calm must reign. They should ask themselves if they have indeed wronged someone. If they are living to please the Lord, they may not be in the wrong. But sometimes, no matter what they do, people will get upset. Tell your children to continue to love and obey the Lord. Tell them to let Christ fight the battles for them. That’s the lesson they need to learn.

Are you dealing with false accusations? I’ve dealt with that in the past. Sometimes, though, I have actually wronged someone and didn’t know it until I was confronted. I am thankful for accountability.

O Lord, thank You for showing me when I sin against others. Protect me when I am doing good and am accused by those who would do me harm. And thank You for letting me be an example to others.