Exodus 18  Jethro, Moses' father-in-law,  comes to return Zipporah, Moses' wife, and their two sons, Gershom and Eliezer.   Jethro had heard about what God had done in delivering the Israelites.  Now, he got a first hand account from Moses, himself.  The result is a confirmation for Jethro, " Now I know that the Lord is greater than all gods;..."   This man watches carefully when Moses sits alone to judge disputes between the people.  He gives Moses good advice, which Moses immediately follows.

Key statements:
v.18 "... the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone."
v20 " ... teach them....and make known to them the way...."
v21 "... select able men who fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; "
v22. " ... so it will be easier for you and they will bear the burden with you."

 When we try to do things alone, whether because of necessity or because of stubborn pride,  may God bring someone like Jethro along and remind us that we need to share our burdens with others.

We must first recognize when we need help. Admit it to ourselves and to the Lord.
We must be willing to share what we know with others.
We must look carefully to only those who share God's Truth and have the same values that we do.
Then we can confidently share the load with peace in our hearts.

What a great lesson for those of us who tend to want to do-it-ourselves!  I know a few people like that, don't you?  Maybe we need to be like Jethro to them?

Father, teach us to walk in Your ways.  To care for one another, to come alongside one another, and to submit to one another.  For this is Your will. Keep us from choosing the wrong advice, from looking to those who are not Your people, who do not have Your heart or truth.  To  not " walk in the counsel of the wicked, " but only to those who delight  in Your Word.   May we not be conformed to this world, but transformed as You renew our thoughts and hearts with Your Word today.  Lead us in Your paths today, we ask in Jesus' Name. Amen