So when Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he did for the people, he said, “What is this thing that you are doing for the people? Why do you sit, and all the people stand before you from morning until evening? Exodus 18:14
Moses was doing it all: leading the people, interceding for them, and resolving disputes between them. Moses’ father-in-law saw that he was taking on more than he could handle and recommended that Moses look for able men, men who feared God, were trustworthy, and hated bribes, and place them over the people as chiefs of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens to judge them. Significant matters would be brought to Moses, while the chiefs would resolve small issues.
In his book, Experiencing God Day by Day, Blackaby states, “In our zeal to please God and advance His kingdom, we Christians often take on responsibilities that God never intended for us to have. One of the great challenges of the Christian life is determining what God does not want us to do! Our intentions are admirable: We love God, we love His people, and we see many needs around us. But sometimes our good intentions cause more harm than good.”
Are you wearing yourself out, juggling too many responsibilities and ministries? If you feel overwhelmed or you’re experiencing burnout, you might be doing more than necessary. Take time to list your responsibilities, then pray over them. Ask God to show you those areas where He wants you to minister, those that are not part of your calling, and those who might be suitable replacements.
God did not create us to work alone but as a body with Christ at the head. Don’t do a disservice to others with a DIY mentality. You might rob someone else of the privilege of contributing to the Kingdom of God.
Prayer: Lord, I sometimes find it difficult to say ‘no’ to others, even when I feel I’m struggling beneath the load. Please grant me the wisdom to know where I should minister according to my calling, and where I need to make room for others to minister. Amen.
Thought: At some point, we need more than good advice; we need help – Max Lucado