In the October 4th Pastor’s Devotional on YouTube, I invited us to reflect on a powerful passage from Exodus 18:1-27, where Moses receives wise counsel from his father-in-law, Jethro. The key verses are Exodus 18:17-18 –  where Jethro says to a borderline burned-out Moses, “What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” 

These words of encouragement and guidance come at a pivotal moment in Moses’ leadership journey. Moses was trying to do everything on his own, and it was taking its toll. Jethro’s advice was simple but profound: “You cannot do it all by yourself—you need help.”  

As we navigate our personal lives, our ministry, and our roles in the church and community, many of us fall into the same pattern as Moses. We take on too much, believing that we can shoulder the weight of it all. But Jethro’s wisdom speaks to us, too: we need to recognize when to ask for help and when to allow others to step in and support us. 

Are you feeling overwhelmed or burdened in your life and leadership? Don’t hesitate to ask a trusted friend of leader for help, just as Moses did. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness, to acknowledge that we cannot do it alone. God places people around us to offer wisdom, encouragement, and a helping hand when we need it most. 

Likewise, there will be times when you are in Jethro’s position—when God places you in someone’s life to offer support. In those moments, seek God’s guidance. Be present, listen without judgment, and offer help with a heart of compassion. And, perhaps most importantly, stay alongside them through the journey.  

Encouragement isn’t just a one-time act; it’s a commitment to walk alongside one another before, during and after critical situations come. 

Two practical steps when we give or receive encouragement . . .

Learn from Moses (the one in need)

• Ask for help – Ex. 18:1-5.
• Talk it out – Ex. 18:7-8.
• Take steps toward healing – Ex. 18:24.

Learn from Jethro (the one who cares)

• Listen and understand – Ex. 18: 9.
• See and validate the other person – Ex. 18:14,17.
• Offer help – Ex. 18:19-23.

At HRBC, let us strive to be a community where we are both willing to ask for help and eager to offer it when needed. As we follow Moses’ example of vulnerability and Jethro’s example of wisdom, we reflect the heart of Christian community—bearing one another’s burdens and building each other up in love. 

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 

In Christ’s care,