Listen FIRST

S ~ So the whole community of Israel gathered at Shiloh and prepared to go to war against them. First, however, they sent a delegation led by Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest, to talk with the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Joshua 22:12-13

O ~ Prepare to go for war, but talk first. These people were part of their family - better to ask good questions, and listen first.

A ~ It’s important to not just jump to conclusions, with partial information, or even distant observations. The whole community of Israel gathered - the whole community.  Everyone had come to the same conclusion, but they were wrong.  There is nothing wrong with preparing for war - it’s a wise move. Yet it is quite different to actually go to war.  Swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.

P ~ Lord, please help me to wait before warring, especially when it is with the family of God.