Today’s Podcast
Today’s Devotional
Today’s background scripture comes from Exodus 18.
Moses learned an important lesson from Jethro most of My leaders today still do not understand. Moses tried to do everything himself as leader of the fledgling nation of Israel. Jethro saw he would soon wear himself out with the tasks he took. Much of the work others could do if he would let them. Some of the tasks I reserved for him alone.
Like many, Moses forgot I gave others special gifts to help him. He would need those others and their skills soon to help build the tabernacle, the furniture, and utensils that I would instruct him to build. He could not do it alone. I would give Moses the instructions, but others would carry out the work. Men I gifted specifically for the tasks. Men endued with artistic skills Moses did not have.
Too many of My leaders today think they must take on the task of doing all the work in their churches. Sometimes, those led by the pastors are too comfortable letting them do the work. But I did not give them the gifts to do everything necessary to build My church. I gave them some gifts, those necessary to carry out their responsibilities, but I expect everyone who is part of the body of Christ to do their share in keeping that body whole and healthy.
When everyone does their part, the work gets done. The loads stay light enough for each to accomplish what must get accomplished each day. And each is blessed with the joy of knowing they have done their part in building the kingdom. So many feel like asking others to help is an imposition when really, it provides a blessing when it is a task I’ve given them gifts to perform in My church. Never take away someones blessing by refusing to let them use the gifts I’ve given them. I don’t fail to find those blessing by refusing to use your own gifts. I’ve given them to you for a reason.
Today’s Scripture
Today’s Bible reading plans include:
Ready – Exodus 18:13-27
Set -Exodus 18; Acts 3
Go! – Exodus 17-20; Acts 3
Exodus 18:13-27
13 On the next day, Moses sat and served as judge, settling disputes among the people. Those with grievances surrounded him from sunrise to sundown waiting to present their case. 14 Jethro noticed all Moses was doing for the people.Jethro: What do you think you are doing? Why are you the only one who is able to judge the disputes of all these people who surround you from sunrise to sundown?
Moses: 15 These people come to me seeking direction from God. 16 When two people are arguing and can’t resolve their differences, they come to me; and I settle the matter between them. This is one way I help God’s people understand His requirements and instructions.
Jethro: 17 What you are doing is not good for you. 18 The responsibility is just too much. You are going to wear yourself out. Not only that, you’re going to wear out the people too. You can’t do it all by yourself. 19 I am going to give you a piece of advice, so listen up and God will be with you. You should represent the people before God, and carry their concerns to Him. 20 Teach them God’s requirements and pass on His laws. Show them the right way to live and the kind of work they should be doing. 21 As for all these other duties you have taken on, choose competent leaders who fear God, love truth, despise dishonesty, and won’t take bribes. After you divide and subdivide all the people into various groups of a thousand, hundred, fifty, and ten, put the men of integrity you selected in charge over the various groups. 22 Let these righteous leaders be ready to judge the people whenever it is necessary. If there is some major problem, they can bring that to you. Otherwise, these select leaders ought to be able to handle the minor problems. This will be much easier for you, and they will help you carry this burden. 23 If you do what I advise and God directs you, then you will be able to handle the pressure. Not only that, but all these people standing around needing help, they will be able to return to their tents at peace.
24 Moses accepted Jethro’s advice and did all that he said. 25 He chose competent leaders and put them in charge of the community of Israel. He divided and subdivided the nation into groups of a thousand, hundred, fifty, and ten, and he appointed a leader over each group. 26 The righteous leaders judged the people whenever disputes or problems arose. Any major quarrel, they brought to Moses for his judgment; but every minor argument, they judged themselves.
27 When it was time for Jethro to return to his own land, Moses sent his father-in-law on his way.
The Voice Bible Copyright © 2012 Thomas Nelson, Inc. The Voice™ translation © 2012 Ecclesia Bible Society All rights reserved.
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