Sharing God's Plan. Exodus 18:19

Good morning everyone.

Please stand with me and repeat after me.

This is my Bible.

I am what it says I am.

I can do what it says I can do.

I am going to learn how to be what it says I can be.

Today I will learn more of the word of God.

The indestructible, never ending, living word Of God.

I will never be the same.

I will never be the same.

In Jesus Name

Amen?

Before you sit down, say good morning to your brothers and sisters.

Today's message is entitled, "Sharing the Load: God’s Plan for Strength in Community"

Turn in your Bibles with me to Exodus 18:19 and say, "Amen" when you are there.

"Now obey my voice; I will give you advice, and God be with you! You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God."

Introduction

Imagine being Moses—leading an entire nation out of slavery, guiding them through the wilderness, and answering every dispute and question they bring. The weight of leadership must have been crushing.

Then, Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, steps in and offers simple but transformative advice:

“You can’t do this alone.”

This passage teaches us an essential truth: we were never meant to carry the burdens of life by ourselves. Instead, God calls us to trust Him, lean on others, and embrace the strength that comes from shared responsibility.

Today, let’s explore three powerful truths from this story:

The danger of trying to do it all.

The blessing of receiving godly advice.

The peace of surrendering control to God.

1. The Danger of Trying to Do It All

Moses was stuck in an unsustainable pattern, trying to judge every case brought by the Israelites. Jethro saw this and asked a crucial question: “Why do you sit alone, and all the people stand around you from morning till evening?” (Exodus 18:14).

This question resonates with us today. How often do we overwork ourselves, refusing to ask for help because we think no one else can do it like we can?

There’s a true story about a father who worked three jobs to provide for his family. He refused to accept help, believing it was his sole responsibility. One day, he collapsed from exhaustion. In the hospital, he broke down and admitted, “I can’t do it all.”

His church rallied around him, covering his family’s needs until he recovered.

The lesson is clear: God never intended us to bear life’s burdens alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls, one can help the other up.”

2. The Blessing of Receiving Godly Advice

When Jethro told Moses to delegate responsibilities, it wasn’t just practical advice—it was a godly principle. By appointing capable leaders to handle smaller tasks, Moses could focus on his unique calling: representing the people before God.

A young pastor once struggled to manage a growing ministry. He tried to lead every Bible study, counsel every member, and organize every event. His mentor gently told him, “You’re robbing others of the chance to serve.”

When he started empowering others, the ministry flourished. More importantly, the pastor found joy and renewed energy.

Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” God places wise people in our lives to guide us. All we need to do is listen.

3. The Peace of Surrendering Control to God

Jethro’s advice wasn’t just about delegation; it was about faith. He reminded Moses that God was with him. Delegating wasn’t about losing control—it was about trusting God to work through others.

Corrie Ten Boom, a Holocaust survivor, shared how she and her family hid Jews from the Nazis. She often felt overwhelmed by fear and responsibility, but her father reminded her, “When you can’t carry it, let God carry you.” Corrie learned to trust God even in unimaginable circumstances. Her faith brought her peace and the strength to continue.

We, too, can find peace when we surrender our burdens to God. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Closing Challenge

This week, look for someone in your life who might need help carrying their burden. Be their Jethro, offering encouragement and support. Together, we are stronger.

As we reflect on Moses' story and the wisdom shared by Jethro, I want you to consider:

What burdens are you carrying alone?

Is God calling you to release some control and trust others to share the load?

Are you ready to let go of your fears and allow God to lead you into greater strength and peace?

For those who are struggling to manage life on your own:

Today, God is inviting you to come and lay your burdens down at the altar. You don’t have to carry it all. Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Come, surrender the weight of your life to Him, and allow His peace to fill your heart.