Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good! You will surely wear out, both you and these people who are with you, for this is too heavy a burden for you; you are not able to do it by yourself.”
Into the Text
I can do it by myself! This refrain is something we oftentimes hear from toddlers forming their independence. But if we’re honest, we still live with this mantra throughout our adult years. We think we can handle things all on our own.
At first, Moses led the people of Israel in the same way. He believed that all the responsibilities rested solely on him. Later, with the wise advice of his father-in-law, Moses learned that he and the Israelites could only flourish if he was willing to share the load of leading.
Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, encouraged him to divvy up the work among other leaders, creating an improved societal structure. In this way, Moses wasn’t required to oversee every case.
When we fail to allow others to step in, we are on a quick path to burnout. Burnout can look like physical and mental exhaustion, a lack of seeking and trusting God, and failure to maintain or pour into the relationships God has given us, just to name a few.
We often think we are invincible and that no one else is able to or wants to help us. These mindsets prevent us from trusting God to guide us through each situation and to lean on one of the greatest gifts He’s given us: the Church.
Christ gave us the Church so that we can walk together through this life encouraging, supporting, and guiding each other. Raise your hand when you need help and let others support you. It’s a gift to see Christ’s body at work in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
Prayer
God, help me to see where I can let others step in and help me carry the loads that burden my life. Help me to trust you with each step. Amen.