Exodus 18
-Jethro heard all God had done for Israel and came to Moses
at the mount of God in the wilderness where Israel camped. Moses went out to
his father-in-law in sweet reunion bowing before him and kissing him. They
inquired of each other’s welfare and Moses told him of all God’s deliverance
from Pharaoh and Egypt. Jethro acknowledged God as the greatest (the most
supreme) because He delivered the people (Israel) when Egypt dealt proudly against them. *Application* This is a key
phrase that gives us insight as to why the Lord’s wrath came against this
nation in such a profound way. God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to
the humble (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5). This is a word of wisdom for our own lives
as well as our nation.
-They made burnt offerings and sacrifices unto the LORD, and
Aaron along with the elders ate a meal with them.
-Jethro saw all the business and all that Moses was doing
for the people asking why he sat alone as judge from morning to evening every
day. The reason was that the people needed to inquire of God for judgments and
disputes of God and His laws.
-Jethro knew that Moses would not last long under this heavy
burden and would not be able to endure. He advised him to select out men who:
1) feared God, 2) were of truth, 3) hated dishonest gain (bribes). These would
be placed as leaders over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. Moses would
handle the major disputes and the others would take care of minor matters after
being taught the statutes and laws. *Application* This was done under the principles
of endurance, long-term vision, delegation, and multiplying ministry (2 Timothy
2:2). The old saying is true, “I’d rather get ten men to do the work than do
the work of ten men.” God has crafted us for specific tasks and He wants us to
relinquish authority for the betterment of progress and growth in anything we
endeavor to do (1 Corinthians 12). God is the designer.
-Moses listened and did all his father-in-law said to do. He
received wise counsel humbly and was able to lead for the entire 40 years in
the wilderness because of this delegation practice. Moses did not burn out. He
was the most humble man in the world (Numbers 12:3).
Verse to Memorize:
Exodus 18:24
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