How can we apply the principles of Exodus 18:7 in our daily interactions? Exodus 18:7—A Snapshot “Then Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, bowed down, and kissed him. They greeted one another and went into the tent.” Initiate the Contact • Moses “went out to meet” Jethro—he did not wait passively. • Daily application: – Walk across the room at church, work, or home to greet someone first. – Send the text, make the call, knock on the neighbor’s door. – Philippians 2:4 reminds us to “look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others”. Show Respect Openly • Bowing signified honor; Moses, the national leader, humbled himself. • Daily application: – Address elders politely, make eye contact, stand when they enter. – Speak without sarcasm to authority figures. – 1 Peter 2:17: “Honor everyone”. Demonstrate Appropriate Affection • The kiss was a customary, sincere sign of family love. • Daily application: – Offer a warm handshake, pat on the back, or a kind smile. – Let loved ones hear “I love you” regularly. – Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love”. Cultivate Mutual Exchange • “They greeted one another”—respect and affection flowed both ways. • Daily application: – Listen as eagerly as you speak. – Value the other person’s story, even if you know yours is exciting. – James 1:19 calls us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak”. Invite Deeper Fellowship • They “went into the tent”—private space for meaningful conversation. • Daily application: – Share a meal, coffee, or walk to move beyond surface greetings. – Hospitality opens hearts for counsel, comfort, and discipleship. – Hebrews 13:2 urges, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers”. Honor Family Ties and Generational Bridges • Moses respected his father-in-law, acknowledging wisdom regardless of age or status. • Daily application: – Seek advice from parents, grandparents, mentors. – Encourage children to greet their elders respectfully. – Proverbs 16:31: “Gray hair is a crown of glory”. Lead Through Humility • The nation’s leader took the lower posture first. • Daily application: – Manager greets janitor, teacher greets student, pastor greets congregant. – Luke 22:26: “The greatest among you should be like the youngest”. Putting It Together Today • Start the interaction. • Combine honor, affection, and reciprocity. • Offer real space and time. • Bridge generations with humility. Living Exodus 18:7 transforms routine hellos into moments that reflect Christ’s love and point others to the God who “first loved us” (1 John 4:19). |
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