A Word from Exodus 18

As you look to the week ahead, do you face any tasks or responsibilities that seem a little overwhelming? And if you do, how could you “share the load,” so that you’re able to handle the most important things well. But if you don’t, how could you “bear the load of others;” so that they, too, can handle what’s most important?

I ask this because today’s word from Exodus 18 tells a story about working together. Moses was leading God’s people through the wilderness. But he was spending a lot of time resolving disputes and making minor decisions. In the process, he was risking burnout, depriving others of the chance to use their gifts, and holding up the journey to the Promised Land.

Thankfully, God sent a little wisdom to Moses through his father-in-law Jethro, who said, “What you’re doing isn’t good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. Listen to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you.” (18:17-19). Then, Jethro described a plan in which Moses would choose “capable men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain,” (18:21) and they would handle the smaller issues, while Moses handled the big stuff. And lo and behold, the plan worked. And it wasn’t long at all before the Israelites arrived at Mount Sinai.

Of course, you might not be wandering through the wilderness today. But I’ll bet that just about all of us have some responsibilities that could be handled a lot better if they were shared. And maybe that’s why the New Testament writers would later tell us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Gal. 6:2)

So today, let me encourage you to “share the load,” whatever that might be. And may all of us make progress together toward the Promised Land that God has in store. Amen.