What does Exodus 18:16 teach about seeking God's will in decision-making? Setting the Scene • Exodus 18 records a pivotal moment shortly after Israel’s escape from Egypt. • Moses is overwhelmed by the daily disputes of a nation in transition. • Verse 16 captures Moses’ method: “Whenever they have a dispute, it comes to me, and I judge between the parties and inform them of God’s statutes and laws.” (Exodus 18:16) Timeless Principles for Seeking God’s Will • Center every decision on God’s revealed Word. – Moses didn’t offer personal opinions; he “inform[ed] them of God’s statutes and laws.” – Compare Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Approach God first, then people. – Disputes “come to me,” Moses says, illustrating that issues are first brought before God’s appointed servant who seeks the Lord’s guidance. – James 1:5 reminds us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God.” • Apply Scripture to real-life situations. – Moses “judge[d] between the parties” by taking God’s timeless principles and making concrete rulings. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 shows Scripture equips “for every good work,” including everyday decisions. Practical Steps for Today 1. Begin with prayerful dependence. – Like Israel bringing issues to Moses, bring every decision to the Lord first. 2. Search the Scriptures diligently. – Look for direct commands, principles, and examples that shed light on your situation. 3. Seek godly counsel. – Moses served as a counselor informed by God’s Word; find mentors who do the same (Proverbs 11:14). 4. Weigh motives and outcomes against God’s character. – Decisions must reflect His holiness, justice, and love (Micah 6:8). 5. Act in faith and obedience. – Proverbs 3:5-6 calls us to trust, acknowledge Him, and then move forward, confident He “will make your paths straight.” A Portrait of Balanced Decision-Making • Divine revelation: God’s statutes anchor the process. • Human responsibility: Moses exercises judgment and the people willingly submit. • Community benefit: Just decisions promote peace and order, freeing Moses to lead and the people to flourish (Exodus 18:17-23). Bottom Line Exodus 18:16 teaches that discerning God’s will means bringing issues before Him, grounding decisions in His Word, seeking wise counsel, and applying scriptural truth to everyday life—resulting in clarity, justice, and unity for God’s people. |
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