Exodus 18: Wise Counsel
IN-LAWS ARE THE favorite butt of jokes. Rarely are they portrayed in a positive light. But God places us in extended families to give us added wisdom and to shave off our rough edges. Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, brought Moses' wife and sons back to him. He also brought praise and worship to God. But he didn't stop there. This study shows how he made Moses face up to a weak link in his command. Jethro could be accused of meddling, but he was God's deliverer for Moses and Israel, just as much as Joshua and his soldiers were (17:8-16). Jethro forces us to examine our motives in doing Christian service.
Warming Up to God
What burdens have you felt today as a result of your responsibilities? Tell God about them and let your anxiety slip away.
Read Exodus 18. »
Discovering the Word
- What facts do we learn about Jethro and Moses' family (vv. 1-4)?
- What do the names of Moses' sons recall for him and his family (vv. 3-4)?
- Why was worship the appropriate response to Moses' report (vv. 9-12)?
- What did Jethro observe about Moses' daily routine and the toll this was taking on Moses and the people (vv. 13-18)?
- How did Moses respond to Jethro's counsel (vv. 19-26)?
Applying the Word
- What impressions do you have of Moses' ego at this time in his life?
- Why could it have been easy to overlook God's hand at work in this family reunion, compared to his provision of water, food and victories over the Egyptians and the Amalekites?
- If you are in a leadership position, think about planning to share the load. What will this do for you, for others and especially for younger leaders coming along?
Responding in Prayer
Thank God for the people in your life who have given you wise counsel.
For Further Study
Growing Older & Wiser (LifeGuide Bible Study) by Dale Larsen and Sandy Larsen