Exodus 18:21 (Contemporary English Version)
"You will need to appoint some competent leaders who respect God and are trustworthy and honest. They will be officials in charge of groups of a thousand, a hundred, fifty, and ten."
God uses people to help us
During Israëls journey through the wilderness, Moses carried an enormous responsibility. From early morning until late evening, people came to him with their questions, problems, and disputes. He tried to help everyone, but the burden grew heavier and heavier. His father-in-law Jethro saw what Moses himself did not see: no one can carry everything alone. Therefore, he gave him wise advice. Share the responsibility with trustworthy people and do not try to do everything in your own strength. Moses listened, and as a result, not only did his own situation change, but the people were also served more effectively.
The historical background makes this event especially significant. Israel had recently been delivered from Egypt and had grown into a large nation. Decisions had to be made, conflicts had to be resolved, and people needed guidance. God used Jethro's wisdom to teach Moses that good leadership does not mean doing everything yourself, but learning to work together and trust others.
No one has to struggle alone
Many people recognize the tendency to solve everything on their own. Problems at work, concerns within the family, difficult decisions, or personal challenges can weigh heavily on the heart. Often, we think that asking for help is a sign of weakness. The story of Moses teaches exactly the opposite. Even a leader who was called by God needed other people. God did not create people to live in isolation but to walk together.
We still see this today. In the church, pastors, volunteers, and church members share responsibilities together. In society, friends, family members, coworkers, and caregivers help one another through difficult times. When people combine their strengths, room is created for peace, healing, and growth.
The power of wise advice
Jethro gave Moses more than practical advice. He gave him a new perspective. Today, God often uses people to give us wisdom as well. A conversation with a friend, advice from a mentor, or an encouraging word at the right moment can provide direction when we need it most. Wisdom often begins with a willing heart that is ready to listen.
Remember this
No one has to carry every burden alone. Wise counsel is a gift. Receiving help is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom. God often uses people to make His guidance, care, and encouragement visible.
Final thought
Exodus 18 teaches us that God's care is often revealed through the people He places in our lives. Sometimes His answer to a prayer comes in the form of a friend who listens, a mentor who offers advice, or a fellow believer who walks alongside us. When we learn to listen, cooperate, and support one another, we discover that we are stronger together than alone. God did not intend for us to carry life's burdens by ourselves, but to help one another along the journey. This is not only wisdom for leaders like Moses, but for everyone who desires to live through God's strength and grace.