Commitment: Faithful Through the Divide

  Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 11 -  Sunday

Commitment

Joshua 22:1–8 presents a powerful picture of commitment displayed by the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. Though their inheritance lay east of the Jordan River, far from the main body of Israel, these tribes had promised Moses that they would not rest until their brothers were settled in the land. And they kept that promise. For six to seven years, they fought shoulder-to-shoulder with the rest of Israel, refusing to return home until every tribe had received its inheritance. Their loyalty was not half-hearted; it was costly, patient, and unified.

Their example reminds us that genuine commitment requires perseverance—even when our personal interests could easily pull us away. These tribes could have said, “We already have our land; why should we stay?” But they valued unity over convenience. They understood that God’s people stand or fall together.

Today, we face our own “Jordan Rivers”—barriers and divisions between people, backgrounds, denominations, cultures, and convictions. Christians and non-Christians often seem separated by misunderstandings, hurts, or assumptions. Yet Scripture repeatedly calls us to serve with wholehearted devotion, remembering that “with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men” (Ephesians 6:7), and “whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). At the deepest level, we are working for God, not simply for people or institutions. This truth strengthens our resolve when challenges come.

So how do we remain faithful amid pressure, distraction, and division?

We keep our eyes on the Lord, just as Joshua urged the departing tribes to do: “Take diligent heed to do the commandment… to love the Lord your God… and to walk in all his ways” (Joshua 22:5). Joshua did more than command; he blessed them (vv. 6). He sent them away with spiritual encouragement, not suspicion, hostility, or criticism.

Imagine how our churches, friendships, and ministries would be transformed if we blessed one another more often—if we prayed for each other with intentionality, regularly asking God to strengthen the believers around us. Prayer softens hearts, heals divisions, and rekindles unity. It is difficult to remain distant from those we consistently lift before the Lord.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the example of the eastern tribes who showed unwavering commitment, unity, and perseverance. Teach us to serve with the same wholehearted devotion, remembering that all we do is ultimately for You. Help us remain faithful amid challenges, healing divisions and strengthening bonds within Your church. Make us people who bless and pray for one another, so that Your love may shine through us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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