Wisdom of Others

Exodus 18. The third dire situation we see Israel in, and particularly Moses, is that of the overwhelming demands of ministry. Here, God sends Moses' father-in-law with some good advice. Also, you need to make note that Jethro is not of the congregation of Israel. Will God speak through someone not of the congregation of the church? Absolutely.

1. The Welcome of Moses: Exodus 18:1-12

Pay close attention to Exodus 18:8. God's deliverance should be our chief topic in conversation.

2. The Wisdom of Jethro: Exodus 18:13-27

In relying on God, we often rely on the wisdom God has given others, even if they are not a Christian. For example, if I had cancer I would want the best cancer doctor around. If I had heart trouble, I would want the best heart doctor I could find. Some Christians piously say, "Well I want a Christian doctor." But I say give me the doctor that's an expert in his field, and I'm smart enough to know that God is sovereign and has given that doctor his abilities whether he's a Christian or not. Now if he is a Christian, then that's a plus. If not, then God has the opportunity to work miracles before his eyes, because being an expert in his field, that doctor will know his own human limitations. And when God heals, he'll know it. Then, as a patient, you have the opportunity to testify for God and His healing hand. But the bottom line here is, listen to the wisdom of others, even if they're not apart of the church.

Now go back and read Exodus 18:8-12. Sounds like old Jethro got saved and became a Yahweh worshiper that day.