Avoiding the Perfect Storm

It almost ended tragically.  And it all could have been avoided, if…

Before Israel crossed the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land, a few tribes asked for land on the East side of the river.  They were allowed to do so, provided they also went and helped the rest of their brothers obtain their land too.

Fast forward to when all the clans of Israel had gained their portion and the men of Gad, Reuben and Manasseh returned home.  Before they crossed back over the river, they stopped and built a large altar on the west side of the Jordan – and that’s when the trouble began!

When the Western tribes saw the altar they made some rash, and inaccurate assumptions.  They presumed that the Eastern tribes were going to sacrifice on that nearer altar instead of making the long journey to the tabernacle.  Or, they might use it to sacrifice to other gods.  So sure of themselves were the western tribes that they were immediately ready to go to war against their brothers!

This scene had the makings of the perfect storm – one we can (and should) learn from.  The first lesson – COMMUNICATE!   Had Gad et al taken the time to communicate that they intended the altar only as a reminder that the tribes on both sides of the Jordan were united brothers, the western tribes would have understood from the beginning.  Yet because no explanation was given, people were left wondering.

Lessons 2 and 3 come from the western tribes – #2, DON’T PRESUME  and #3, ASK QUESTIONS!   When the western tribes observed actions they didn’t understand, they should have stopped and asked about what they were seeing.  Instead, they made a grossly incorrect presumption, almost leading to war.  Lastly, they missed an opportunity to HOPE THE BEST OF their brothers.

Want to avoid unnecessary conflicts?  Communicate your actions and your intentions.  Don’t make presumptions – ask questions instead.  And always give the benefit of doubt, thinking the best of those you care about! –Dave

It (love) always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. (1 Corinthians 13:7)

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