About CFC
You weren’t designed to do it alone
By Judith Hollies
3rd February 2012 | Category: Join the Journey 2012
Key Verse
Exodus 18:17 (Msg)
“Let me tell you how to do this so that God will be in this with you.”
Main Content
Central Truth: God’s Way - There is no ‘I’ in team!
I’ll do it my way thanks
If any of you parents have been on the sharp end of the battle of wills with an independent 2 year old child, you’ll be familiar with phrases such as ‘my way!’, ‘not doing that!’ ‘mine!’. Whether we are being as stubborn and prideful as a wilful 2 year old, or faithful & devoted in our service and helpfulness, we often prefer to do things ‘my way’!
Moses is one of the most inspiring examples of Godly leaders in the Bible. He was obedient to God, dedicated in the care of His people, the Israelites, and unwavering in all that God asked him to do. But he was human, he made mistakes, and he got tired!
Two months into their exile from slavery in Egypt, the Israelites fight and defeat the Amalekites, with Joshua as commander, and Moses faithfully overseeing the battle with the ‘banner of God’ raised up high (with the help of Aaron and Hur of course!).
We all need a ‘Jethro’
Another month on, and Moses’ Father-in-law comes to visit and finds Moses up to his neck in pastoral care issues, every day, making decisions, teaching, rebuking and disciplining the Israelites! How exhausting! And even though Jethro was a polytheist, he had the wit to know that this wasn’t an organisational model sent by God!
Because Moses and Jethro shared a loving and open relationship, Jethro was able to impart God’s wisdom to Moses on how to restructure the way issues were dealt with and better manage the people. And because of this secure relationship, Moses listened, received and acted upon Jethro’s sound advice.
And wasn’t it just as well Jethro came along when he did, diverting Moses from potential burnout? Because the very next task God had for Moses involved a rather large and significant journey up Sinai!!
Consider:
Are we sure we are only doing what God has asked us to do, or what we think we should be doing?
Do you find it difficult to ask for help? God has tasks and plans for all of us to do, but we were never meant to do them alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – that’s God’s way.
Have you a ‘better way’ to share with others? When you feel led to impart ‘sound’ advice to another, make sure you have the foundation of a loving, respectful relationship with that person.
Are you feeling burnout? Don’t be afraid (or too proud) to take a step back to recharge and refresh – God always has another exciting job for you to do, and you wouldn’t want to miss out!
Judith Hollies
I am a married to Chris, mum of 3 daughters. I teach Patchwork & Quilting classes here in CFC, and I am passionate about inspiring others to use the creativity God has placed within them.
