Lessons from Jethro

Exodus 18 In the course of time after Moses has been guiding the children of the Exodus, his father-in-law arrives.  He observed and “rejoiced because of all the good that the Lord had done for Israel” [Ex 18:9] In addition, he said; “now I know that the Lord is greater than all the gods.” [Ex 18:11] Would others who come to us recognize and say the same.  As Jethro observes Moses’ daily routine, he asks: What are you doing?  You will surely wear yourself out by being judge and jury for all these people.  After listening, Moses heeds his counsel to choose wise men to assist him.  Our judicial system is based on this example that we use even today. 

You can glean much from studying, but sometimes it is the older generation that can offer wise counsel that we had not considered and Jethro has experiential wisdom to guide Moses.  Scripture tells us, “Wisdom belongs to the aged, and understanding to the old.” [Job 12:12] They are able to give wise counsel from their experiences to help those who are younger make wise decisions and judgments.

Who is your Jethro?  Who are you being a Jethro to?