Beginning of the End - Ellen G. White

were unwilling to live in that land without an altar for sacrifice, they
would be welcome to share in the possessions and privileges of the
tribes on the other side.
In reply, those accused explained that their altar was not
intended for sacrifice, but simply as a witness that, although
separated by the river, they were of the same faith as their relatives
in Canaan. They had feared that in future years their children might
be excluded as having no part in Israel. This altar, patterned after the
altar of the Lord at Shiloh, would be a witness that its builders were
also worshipers of the living God.
The ambassadors accepted this explanation with great joy, and
the people united in rejoicing and praise to God.
The tribes of Gad and Reuben now placed an inscription on
their altar pointing out the purpose for which it was erected. They
said, "It is a witness between us that the Lord is God." In this way
they tried to prevent future misunderstanding and remove a possible
cause of temptation.
How to Avoid Useless Strife
Often difficulties spring up from a simple misunderstanding,
and without courtesy and self-control serious results may follow.
The ten tribes decided to act promptly and earnestly; but instead of
courteously asking about the facts in the case, they met their
brethren with scolding and condemnation. If the people of Gad and
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