In today’s chapel message, Dr. Thomas White taught from Joshua 22, highlighting key lessons on faithfulness to God and how we can apply these principles in our daily lives. He began by emphasizing the importance of commendation before command, a principle seen in Joshua's address to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. Before giving them commands, Joshua commends them for their obedience and faithfulness, a model for us in our own relationships and leadership opportunities (Joshua 22:2–3). Dr. White explained that it’s vital to encourage others before we challenge them, fostering an atmosphere of respect and understanding. 

Dr. White then focused on the five commands found in Joshua 22:5 that believers should strive to live by. These five commands encapsulate the passionate pursuit of faithfulness to God: 

1. Love the Lord Your God – Our love for God should be our first and greatest priority. 
2. Walk in All His Ways – We need to live a life of obedience to God's will, following His guidance in the Scriptures. 
3. Keep His Commandments – We must live in accordance with God's Word, being faithful to His laws. 
4. Cling to Him – In difficult times, when life presents challenges, we must not run from God but draw closer to Him, clinging to His promises and refuge. 
5. Serve Him With All Your Heart and Soul – Our devotion to God should be wholehearted, involving every part of our being. 

Dr. White also recounted the story of the misunderstanding between the tribes after they built an altar near the Jordan River. This act sparked a potential conflict because the Israelites already had a central altar for worship. However, the tribes explained that their intentions were not to rebel but to create a symbol of unity for future generations (Joshua 22:10–34). Dr. White noted that this situation reminded us of the importance of understanding both sides of a story and responding with grace and truth (Proverbs 18:17, Matthew 18:15). The misunderstanding was resolved through open, face-to-face communication, emphasizing that such discussions are often the best way to clear up conflicts and avoid division. 

In conclusion, Dr. White called the congregation to passionately pursue faithfulness to God, following the commands found in Joshua 22:5. He reminded us that our relationship with God requires not only love but also active pursuit, obedience, and wholehearted service. Faithfulness to God is not passive but a continual, zealous effort in all aspects of our lives. 

Life Lessons:  

1. Commend before you command (Joshua 22:2–3)  
2. Two sides to most stories (Proverbs 18:17)  
3. Face to Face discussions is usually better (Matthew 18:15)  
4. Reactions Matter (Proverbs 15:1)  
5. Speechless monuments don’t witness effectively.