ODB: A Time For Good Counsel
January 17, 2012
He who will not be counseled will not be helped.
READ: Exodus 18:13-24
So Moses heeded the voice of his father-in-law and did all that he had said. —Exodus 18:24
Because of the busy lives many of us lead, it’s not hard to recognize ourselves in the over-extended situation of Moses in Exodus 18. As the sole judge for the masses, he was surrounded “from morning until evening” (v.13) by people who needed his help.
In fact, I’ve had people—particularly young parents—tell me that they identify with Moses. It seems that we need to learn two life skills for survival: an eagerness to listen (v.24) and the willingness to accept help (v.25). Sometimes we don’t accept help because of pride, but that’s not always the case.
With Moses, and often with us, it’s simply that life is moving so quickly and making so many demands on us (vv.13-15) that we barely have time to react—let alone to contemplate or go to someone else for advice. Perhaps this is one reason the Scriptures remind us to surround ourselves with counselors who will offer their experience and wisdom even when we’re too busy to ask for it. We see this in the story of what Jethro did for Moses when he told his son-in-law to delegate some of his responsibilities (vv.17-23).
Don’t be overwhelmed. Instead, seek godly counsel and then follow through on what you are told.
— Randy Kilgore
Source: Our Daily Bread
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ODB: A Time For Good Counsel
January 17, 2012 READ: Exodus 18:13-24 So Moses heeded the voice of his father-in-law and did all that he had said. —Exodus 18:24 Because of the busy lives many of us lead, it’s not hard to recognize ourselves in the over-extended situation of Moses in Exodus 18. As the sole judge for the masses, he [...]
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Regardless how much help or counsel we sought after, bear in mind we are still responsible for the decision that we made and prepare to go through the outcome or consequences that might come our way.
On the other hand, we need not be too fast in our eagerness to provide counsel or give advice to others even it is out of good intent. Counselor too must be a good listener first and having a willingness to stick through with the other party.
For instance, most of us will rejoice with those who are responding to the calling of God to full-time ministry and are not only eager to listen to their testimony of God’s calling for their lives, we also express keenness in our initial support by our prayers. Most of us will find it hard to remember or remain faithful in meeting their needs while they are sent to the field. I told myself that I will do show by the best support if I ever encourage someone into full-time ministry. Sure enough, I was given the privilege to partner someone in this aspect. The person came in full-time a about three years or so and left the organization to pursue her further studies in a local theological college. Of course she is supported by the church besides my willing support for her in other aspects though not as much as before. Nevertheless, she will be graduating soon and likely she will serve in a local church near the place she is staying. Oh yes, my friend will likely to take on pastoral track if God’s willing.
So, which ever position you are in, do remember God’s truth sometime cuts both ways and applicable on both sides.