Good
Advice
You’re going to wear yourself out—and
the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by
yourself. Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice,
and may God be with you.
Exodus
18: 18-19a (NLT)
Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, had heard all about what
God had done for Moses and the Israelites. Stirred by the great news, Jethro
traveled with his daughter and his two grandsons to go see Moses in the
wilderness.
When he saw how Moses spent his days settling disputes
among the people, he asked Moses two clarifying questions.
·
What are you really accomplishing?
·
Why are you trying to do all of it alone?
Sometimes, it takes someone on the outside looking in
to spot the real problem. Moses spent his time hearing the disputes of the
people, while the people stood around waiting for their turn to be heard. The
system just wasn’t working.
Instead, Jethro offered Moses some good advice.
Split up the work!
There have been times in my own life that a simple
observation from a trusted friend has redirected my “It’s all up to me”
mentality. Or their wise words have opened my eyes to new ways of doing the
job.
God never gives us more than we can handle. But when
we do take on a task that is big, He will provide the needed help.
Thank goodness for Jethro’s insight and good advice.
If you are carrying a heavy burden, be sure to seek
the advice of someone you trust. God may have a solution to lighten your load.
Father,
Thank that You are always faithful to give
us just what we need when we need it. Help us to always
seek You first and to have listening ears when someone offers us good advice.
In Jesus’ name,
amen.
