Wise Advice

Have you ever heard of Jethrogation? In the book of Exodus chapter 18: verses 13-24, the story reads how Moses in a conversation with his father-in-law realized that he was facing burn out. As his father-in-law observed the many duties that Moses performed for the Israelites, he saw that Moses would soon be over burdened. Moses was doing too much alone.

Moses felt the need to listen to the people all day with very little breaks. The lines were long and the problems he listened to were many. Moses explained to Jethro how the people came to him to seek God's guidance. When conflict arose, Moses was the person who they came to to settle the case. He was the one who informed the people of God's decision and further teach them God's instructions. Moses felt responsible for the people he was leading.

As Jethro listened to his son-in-law he informed him that this was not a good place to be. It was time for him to re-think how he was conducting business. Moses needed to have a better plan, a plan that would allow him some time for his family. Moses' family, his wife and two children lived with Jethro. Moses was a busy man ministering to the Israelites. He was so busy that he had left the responsibilities of providing for his family to Jethro.

In his wisdom Jethro decided to present Moses with his family again and give him wise counsel as to how to keep his family a priority. Jethro proceeded to tell Moses that the job was to heavy for him to handle alone. Jethro offered Moses a word of advice with the blessings of God. Jethro proceeded to tell Moses that he should continue to be the people's representative before God. Tell them God's decisions, teach them God's laws and instructions and show them how to conduct their lives.

The next statement that Jethro made freed Moses to minister to all with the help of some. Jethro told Moses"find some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as judges over groups. These people will serve the people resolving day to day ordinary cases. Lighten your load."

These judges helped Moses carry the load. "If you follow this advice and if God directs you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures and all these people will go home in peace." Moses listened to his father-in-law's advice and followed his suggestions. The key word is that Moses Listened, then he followed through with the wise advice given to him. His family life was restored to him and his father-in-law was able to return to his home. Jethro's mission was accomplished and God's will was done by Moses listening to the wise advice of his father-in-law.

Wise advice is given at different seasons of our lives. Following this wise advice blesses us and those who we come in contact with. It helps us to gain a proper perspective of where we fit in the scheme of life itself. Wise advice allows us to be grounded and to choose with wisdom the proper battle to fight. Choose wisely who you listen to and whose advice you take.

09-20-09