Serving Like Moses?

Read Exodus 18:9-27

Why are you doing that? It's a question many of us have been asked and many of us ask of others. It's interesting because this question is asked of Moses by his father-in-law Jethro. Moses is the leader of Israel and each day he took his seat to serve as judge for the people. And he did this from morning til evening.

Jethro speaks up and causes Moses to realize what he's doing isn't good. He will wear himself out while all these others, those who are capable are standing by not participating in any way to help Moses.

The church can be like this - we have lots of capable and godly people who just need to be asked to serve, to step up and lead, much like the leaders who Moses eventually chose to help him serve the people. People will always need to be served but what's also true is the instruction Moses received from Jethro, especially verses 19-23. Take some time and read this passage. Here's Moses' instruction from Jethro:

1. the work is too hard for you (ever feel that way?)
2. teach the people the word of God, the law; show them the way to live and the duties they can help you with
3. select capable men who fear God and are trustworthy, hating dishonest gain
4. have them serve as judges with you while you handle the tougher cases.

Easy enough but necessary to remember when we work together as a body of believers we can accomplish so much more than wearing ourselves out trying to do it all ourselves. Let's remember to invite others to participate with us in ministry all for the glory of God. When we do we'll realize God equips the called, and we are all called to serve our faithful Father.