Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 11 - Thursday
Conflict Resolution
Principles of Peaceful Communication (Joshua 22)
The story of Joshua 22 is much more than an ancient dispute between tribes—it is a living illustration of how God’s people are called to communicate, relate, and preserve unity without compromising truth. As tensions flare between the tribes west of the Jordan and the two-and-a-half tribes in the east, Scripture reveals a pattern for how believers today can navigate misunderstanding, suspicion, and conflict within families, churches, and communities.
1. Communicate Early—Don’t Let Concerns Explode Later
When something seems wrong, the natural instinct is either to withdraw or to let frustration simmer. But Scripture shows us a better way: talk. The western tribes’ concern was real, but their lack of early communication caused fear to swell unnecessarily. And the eastern tribes—though acting with good intentions—might have prevented the entire episode had they simply shared their plans beforehand.
Healthy relationships require proactive, open conversation. Silence breeds suspicion. Transparency builds trust. God’s people are not called to indifference but to engaged, patient dialogue.
2. Slow Down—Don’t Jump to Conclusions
The western tribes heard a rumor and immediately believed the worst. They assumed rebellion, apostasy, and betrayal—without a single conversation. Their hearts outran the facts.
How often do we do the same? We hear a fragment of a story, observe something from afar, or interpret someone’s behavior through our own fears—and we fill in the blanks with the darkest possibilities. God calls us to pause, pray, and investigate before forming conclusions. “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him” (Proverbs 18:13).
3. Discuss Problems Before Acting on Assumptions
Talk first. Act second. This is wisdom for every sphere of life—marriage, friendships, church leadership, or workplace challenges. Unspoken assumptions lead to unnecessary conflict. Joshua 22 teaches us that problems—real or perceived—must be addressed through conversation before any action is taken.
4. Be Willing to Sacrifice for the Sake of Unity
The western tribes, even in their fear, were willing to offer part of their land if distance from the tabernacle was causing the eastern tribes to drift spiritually. This was no small offer—it signified love, humility, and a deep desire for unity among God’s people.
True unity always costs something—time, comfort, preference, pride. But the price is worth paying. Unity built on humility reflects the heart of Christ Himself.
5. Give a Gentle Answer—Even When Accused
The response of the eastern tribes stands as one of the most beautiful moments in the passage. Under the sting of false accusation, their reply was gentle, measured, and humble. They sought understanding rather than victory. They explained their motives without anger or self-defense.
Proverbs 15:1 echoes loudly here: “A soft answer turneth away wrath.” Counter-accusations only deepen wounds. Gentle answers open hearts.
6. Rejoice When Peace Is Restored
When the truth emerged and the misunderstanding cleared, Israel rejoiced. There was no sulking, no embarrassment, no lingering defensiveness—only gratitude that unity had been preserved. Pride did not prevent them from admitting their error.
This is maturity. This is grace. And this is the spirit of Christ within His people.
Truth and Unity—Both Matter
Joshua 22 ends with a needed reminder: if genuine apostasy had been occurring, Israel would have acted according to the covenant. Unity is precious, but it must never come at the cost of truth. At the same time, truth and discipline should never be the starting point. God calls His people to patient reconciliation, careful communication, and pastoral guidance before corrective action is ever considered.
Imagine how different our congregations and families would look if we practiced these principles consistently—communicating early, listening humbly, avoiding hasty assumptions, valuing unity, offering gentle answers, and rejoicing whenever peace is restored. This is the way of wisdom. This is the way of love.
Prayer
Father, teach us the way of peace. Guard our hearts from rash judgments and quick assumptions. Give us courage to communicate lovingly, patience to listen carefully, and humility to respond gently. Help us value both unity and truth, and guide us to be instruments of reconciliation wherever You have placed us. May our relationships reflect Your grace, and may our homes and churches radiate the peace of Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
