JETHRO AND MOSES
Exodus 18:9–11, 14–21
Even if you’re not a sports fan, you probably recognize the name Michael Jordan. Considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan won at least one championship on the college, professional and Olympics level. For a certain generation of basketball fans, he is the face of the sport. Now, think about another name. Does Stacey King ring a bell? Probably not. However, in the spring of 1990, King and Jordan together scored 70 points in one game. By anyone’s standards, that is impressive.
When reporters asked about the accomplishment, King quipped, “I will always remember this as the night when Michael Jordan and I combined to score 70 points.” It should be noted, however, that King scored one point to Jordan’s 69.
Over the course of the next six sessions, we will look at some notable duos in Scripture and the importance of mentoring in a believer’s life. Each of us needs a mentor, and each can serve as a mentor.
We should be seeking out older, more mature believers for their wisdom while also not neglecting the opportunity to invest and disciple a new Christian or one who may be struggling.
Acknowledge where you see the hand of God at work. (9–11)
God is perpetually at work around us. We may not always see it with our physical eyes, but He is in every fiber of our universe and by His power is holding things together.
With so much negativity in our world, it is good to celebrate when God shows Himself in our situation and blesses us.
Jethro rejoiced in the attributes and activities of the Father. Jethro gave Him praise for not only who God is, but also what He has done.
This should also be the basis of our praise. When we recall the goodness of God, we will soon remember there is none like Him that can compare with His provision.
Offer constructive criticism. (14–18)
Sometimes how we say something can be interpreted as a personal attack. I can speak from experience when it comes to regretting the force or intent of my words. I have discovered the “how” of my words is just as important as the “what.” In love, Jethro went to Moses and shared with him a gentle correction. Moses was burning himself out with the people and Jethro intervened. Jethro urged him to take a step back and consider his current course.
Encourage with sound counsel. (19–21)
Because of Jethro’s love for Moses, he offered to show him a better way. In his wisdom, Jethro instructed Moses to delegate some responsibilities to others. The result would be the same, and it allowed Moses an opportunity to better serve the people. Moses humbly followed the words of his father-in-law and was blessed because of it.
How many conflicts in our homes and churches could be avoided if we genuinely wanted the best for each other? What if our motive was to lift others up and not push them down?
This is possible as we depend on the wisdom of God. He tells us wisdom is for the taking if we simply ask. Each of us can benefit from the godly direction of others.
There is an old proverb that may be beneficial in this case: You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. When given the choice, let us choose sweeter words and not bitter ones.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
