But do not rebel against the Lord or against us by building an altar for yourselves, other than the altar of the Lord our God. – Joshua 22:19
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The Reubenites, Gadites and the half tribe of Manasseh, who had crossed over the Jordon to help their fellow Israelites to settle into their inheritance, had now been sent home with Joshua’s blessing. Joshua acknowledged their faithfulness in doing all that the Lord had commanded them to do.
Having got back to their own land, the first thing they did was to build a huge imposing altar, at Gelioth, along the Jordon. This perturbs and infuriates the ten tribes of Israel, who rush out, up in arms to wage a war against these two and a half tribes, assuming the altar to be a sign of their rebellion against God. But all is at peace when the men of Reuben etc. can honestly clarify their intention and prove their innocence, that their hearts were loyal to the Lord God alone.
So, what does true worship look like? Joshua in verse 5 of this chapter, gives a beautiful picture of what it means to worship God. He says they were to love, obey, and serve God wholeheartedly. These three go together and are dependent on one another. You will only obey and serve the one you love.
Take a quick look at how you spent your time and resources in the past few days. Whom or what are you serving and using your talents and resources for? The Bible clearly states you cannot serve both God and money. You will hate one and love the other. (Matt 6:24)
Is God truly the recipient of your love and worship?
Lord, help me to love, obey and serve only you, I pray, Amen.
Extended Reading — Joshua 22-24
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