By Themselves

Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice, and may God be with you. You should continue to be the people’s representative before God, bringing their disputes to him.  Teach them God’s decrees, and give them his instructions. Show them how to conduct their lives.  But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.  They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes, but have them bring the major cases to you. Let the leaders decide the smaller matters themselves. They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you.  If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.”  Exodus 18:19-23 

My mother was a tireless worker and determined woman.  She worked not only to raise her three sons of which I am the youngest but also for the civil rights of African Americans as a founder for a not for profit organization giving youth exposure to corporate America.  Back in the 70’s, the first generation of African Americans were growing up to have opportunities their parents never had, and through my mother’s organization, doors were opened to many who would later go onto college and universities seeking professions many of us today never knew were once unavailable.  Think of a time when you had no idea what you were going to do in your life, and one day, someone showing you a whole new world.  That was my mother to me and others.  One of the most famous sayings my mother told me time and time again growing up was that no one makes it in this world by themselves.  This was such wisdom my mother taught me that I have never forgotten.  It is why I am always open to listen to others because one never knows who God sends you to provide counsel in times of uncertainty. 

God always sends us what we need to move closer to His will being done.  In today’s verses, Moses was dealing with lots of things in Israel’s long journey.  I found myself at the part where Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, came to visit Moses, and Moses shared stories of God and how He brought them this far.  Moses was heavily involved in dealing with the problems and concerns of the people, and having seen this, Jethro became the confidant Moses needed at that time.  Like a great time manager, Jethro asks, “What are you really accomplishing here?  Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?” (Exodus 18:14b) In today’s verses, Jethro laid the foundation of future prosperity for Moses and His people.  I asked myself why God didn’t just tell him this.  Then I remembered what my mom told me.  No one makes it in this world by themselves.  God sent Jethro, a voice Moses obviously trusted, to help him in his time of need.  We all need that voice, don’t we?  Whether it be a spouse, family member, or friend, God places people strategically in our walk of faith to not only help us prosper but also guide us.  

Through the Holy Spirit, we will know their counsel is of God (note in verse 19 how Jethro notes God’s guidance in his advice), and most importantly, we must act as if God Himself commanded us to. 

It is wonderful to have people surrounding us that God places in our lives.  Furthermore, it is equally as rewarding to know God places us in others lives to make a difference.  Jesus is the perfect example of this as Isaiah foretold of the coming of Jesus saying, “And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6b) It is important that we use God’s wisdom to choose our friends wisely and listen when He talks to us through others.  Otherwise, we may be missing out on what God’s plan is for our lives.  Let us be open to God’s counsel to make us better followers and leaders.  What trouble might you need God’s counsel in?  Who has God placed in your life that can aide in your journey or spiritual growth?  My prayer is that we open our minds and hearts to remember no one makes it in this world by themselves.  Amen.