How can we apply Moses' example in Exodus 18:16 to our daily lives? The Setting of Exodus 18:16 “Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I judge between the parties, and I make known to them the statutes of God and His laws.” (Exodus 18:16) Moses explains to his father-in-law why crowds line up outside his tent. He personally hears each case, renders judgment, and teaches God’s revealed statutes. His example is far more than ancient history—it shapes how we serve, decide, and relate today. Key Actions Moses Demonstrates • Availability: he positions himself where people can find him. • Impartial judgment: he listens and decides fairly. • Reliance on revelation: he appeals to “the statutes of God and His laws,” not personal hunches. • Instruction: he doesn’t just settle disputes; he disciples, helping Israel know and obey Scripture. Lessons for Personal Decision-Making • Anchor every choice in God’s Word (Psalm 19:7; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Ask, “What has God already said about this?” before acting (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Invest time daily in Scripture so biblical principles surface naturally when decisions arise (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Guidelines for Handling Conflicts Today • Be approachable—create spaces where family, friends, or church members feel safe sharing concerns (Galatians 6:2). • Listen fully before responding (James 1:19). • Let Scripture—not emotion—set the standard for right and wrong (James 1:22-25). • Aim for reconciliation, not victory (Romans 12:18; 2 Corinthians 5:18). • If needed, include wise believers who can mediate with biblical clarity (Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 6:1-5). Becoming Students and Teachers of God’s Word • Read broadly—whole-Bible reading plans prevent selective proof-texting. • Memorize key passages that address common life issues. • Share insights informally: around the dinner table, in small groups, during commutes. • Model obedience; lived truth persuades more than lectures (Philippians 4:9). Dependence on the Ultimate Mediator Moses foreshadows Christ, the one true mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). • We draw near to God through Jesus’ finished work (Hebrews 4:14-16). • We point others to Him, not to ourselves, when settling disputes (2 Corinthians 4:5). • His Spirit empowers fair judgment and gracious instruction (John 14:26). Practical Next Steps 1. Set aside fifteen minutes daily to read and note one practical command or principle. 2. Identify one relationship strain; apply a specific Scripture in seeking peace. 3. Offer to mediate a minor disagreement this week, intentionally opening the Bible with those involved. 4. Pair up with a friend to exchange weekly insights from the Word, sharpening each other like iron (Proverbs 27:17). Moses’ pattern in Exodus 18:16 shows how ordinary people become channels of God’s wisdom—approachable, Scripture-saturated, and eager to lead others into obedience. |
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