Preventing Burnout Series

(1) Focus on teaching the Word of God and intercession 19-20

Jethro suggested that Moses focus his energy. Channeled energy is much more effective than trying to power everything. Laser beam, power washer

He suggested that Moses concentrate on two specific roles as leader.

• Focus on intercession (you be the people’s representative before God)

• Focus on instruction & training (teach them, make known the walk and work)

Every generation tries to strategize and come up with the new and improved version. Everyone thinks they have the new strategy to revolutionize the way we do things. Some argue that you can’t argue with success. Success in the eyes of man does not always assure success in the eyes of God. The crowds that mushroomed early in Jesus ministry diminished to a handful of disciples who also finally gave up the ship.

God called Isaiah to preach to a crowd that would not respond. Isaiah 6:8-10

The ministry of John the Baptist slid from thousands of people clamoring to the desert to catch every word and give their life to the Lord to a few faithful followers ministering to him in prison. His ministry shifted from the prophesied herald of the Messiah to imprisoned antagonist of Herod wondering if somehow his whole ministry was for nothing. Matthew 11:2-3

Jethro counseled Moses to focus on intercession and instruction.

Hundreds of years later, Peter urged the congregation to allow the apostles to keep their ministry focused. Acts 6:2-4

Paul defined the role of the pastor for the Ephesian church. Ephesians 4:11-16

The growth of the body depends on the proper working of each individual part carrying out the work of service. The proper working of each individual part depends on the instruction and training provided by the teaching and shepherding of the pastor. The faithful teaching of the word provides, foundational truth, reproof, correction and instruction in righteous living so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:17

Jethro counseled Moses to focus on upholding the people before God and teaching them the basic truths about God (doctrine), the way they ought to walk (reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness) and the ministry they should investing in (work of service, every good work). In order for Moses to focus ministry in just two areas there had to be a way to address all the other tasks that had to be addressed. Jethro had a plan for that as well. It is one thing to suggest a necessary change or point out a problem. It is another to offer viable solutions to those problems.

(2) Appoint leaders who can share the load 21-22

Jethro basically suggested a strategy for delegating responsibility; leadership development. The huge group would be divided into smaller, more manageable groups. Jethro had suggestions for the ideal numerical divisions. I find the numerical divisions quite interesting. 1000’s, 100’s, 50’s, 10’s

Jethro also suggested the ideal qualifications of those who would lead groups.

• People who have recognized abilities (able) (God gifts everyone in the body for a purpose)