Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
October 26, 2024
Exodus 18:13-19
3 The next day Moses sat as a judge for the people, while the people stood around Moses from morning until evening. 14 When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he was doing for the people, he said, “What’s this that you are doing for the people? Why do you sit alone, while all the people are standing around you from morning until evening?” 15 Moses said to his father-in-law, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God. 16 When a conflict arises between them, they come to me and I judge between the two of them. I also teach them God’s regulations and instructions.” 17 Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing isn’t good. 18 You will end up totally wearing yourself out, both you and these people who are with you. The work is too difficult for you. You can’t do it alone. 19 Now listen to me and let me give you some advice. And may God be with you!
Good Morning! Oh, How I love Jesus! Happy Lord’s Day!
You can’t do it alone.
We need to be reminded of these words occasionally, or maybe I should say, I need to be reminded. Today, we hear a lot about self-care, but I’m not sure I realized this isn’t a “new” concept. It’s in Exodus, one of our most ancient writings. This is the equivalent of Moses’ father-in-law asking Moses, “How is it with your soul?”
I am a classic over-achiever in most aspects of my life. I don’t know if I was taught or if it was innate that I am all in whatever I do, always striving for the “A.” Generally, this is a good thing, but I recognize that sometimes I skirt the edge of burnout. I believe I am better at recognizing the signs now than I was a few years ago.
I have strategies that allow me to step away from the stewpot that occupies my thoughts. The problem arises when I see the signs and continue full speed ahead. This morning, on this 27th day of October, I needed to be reminded, “You can’t do it alone.”
Through this passage, God says, “Give to God the things over which I have no control and share the daily tasks with those who are willing to help bear the load.” We all grow in faith when we share the work of the Lord.
Dear Lord, We are your children! Thank you for speaking directly to my needs this morning. I can be stubborn, but in all things, I praise You! Thank you! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: My faith is lived out in community with others.
God accepts our burdens! Pastor Liz
What a great message and reminder! And very appropriate for today. 😊