Knowing When It’s Time to Get Help
Moses listened to his father-in-law’s advice and followed his suggestions. Exodus 18:24
His mentor asked him to list all the things he was doing in his job. When his list topped 50 different things, Craig realized why he was exhausted.
What do you do when you simply have too much for one person to do?
Take a lesson from Moses. Yes, Moses, the Ten Commandments guy of the Bible. As it turns out, once Moses got all of those people through the waters of the Red Sea and out into the desert, there were a lot of disputes that needed handling. Moses would sit all day long to hear the people’s disputes. When his father-in-law came to visit him, he observed, “What are you really accomplishing here? … This is not good!” “You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself” (Exodus 18:14,17-18).
Moses’ wise father-in-law advised him to “select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes.” They would solve the people’s common disputes, leaving Moses to handle major cases.” They will help you carry the load,” his father-in-law advised, “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 18:22-24). Moses was willing to listen and followed this wise counsel.
We can’t see clearly when we’re so exhausted. Moses’ father-in-law came along just at the right time to provide clarity. If you’re feeling exhausted, look around. Who is next to you right now that could help you think and give wise counsel?