Day 5: The way to life
Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good… Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you… Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said (Exodus 18:17, 19, 24).
Father in heaven, the only wise God (Romans 16:27), You have given us the wisdom of Your word with instructions for older generations to teach it to the young, and for younger generations to embrace and apply it: Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching... (Proverbs 1:8). But indeed we can all build [each] other up according to [our] needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29).
Your wisdom is relevant to all stages of our life, whatever our status or station. For as Your word itself declares, Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed (Proverbs 15:22).
Even Moses, the man of God (Deuteronomy 33:1) benefitted greatly from this principle. It was his father-in-law, Jethro, who pointed out to him the drawbacks and limitations of the judicial process he had set in place: “What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone…” (Exodus 18:17-18).
Elsewhere in Scripture we read that Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth (Numbers 12:3). He was willing to accept Jethro's fatherly advice—Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said (Exodus 18:24). And the wise principles of delegation Moses learned from Jethro are still widely used in leadership today.
Moses shows us the practical truth of the wise teacher, who declared that correction and instruction are the way to life (Proverbs 6:23). Jethro was indeed pointing the way to life as he helped the overworked leader decrease stress, avoid burnout, develop other leaders, and develop a sound process to enable better outcomes.
Lord, we are all in need of wise counsel and many advisers as we try to navigate all our different areas of assignment and responsibility. Give us the humility and the willingness to listen to the wise counsel of father-figures, mentors, and godly guides.
And because others can also benefit from our knowledge, experience and wisdom, teach us how to also offer wise correction and instruction when appropriate—motivated by love and caring—and carried out with sensitivity and sincerity. Help us to strengthen and encourage [each other] in [our] faith (1 Thessalonians 3:2).
Thank You, Lord, for all that has been passed on to us in the way of wisdom. Help us to stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel (Philippians 1:27).
