What can we learn from Jethro's approach to Moses in Exodus 18:6? Setting the Scene – Exodus 18:6 “He sent word to Moses, ‘I, your father-in-law Jethro, have come to you, with your wife and her two sons.’” Respectful Distance Before Personal Contact • Jethro “sent word” rather than walking straight into the camp. • He honors Moses’ leadership role and the order God established (cf. Proverbs 25:6-7; 1 Peter 5:5). • Lesson: Initiate contact politely; give leaders room to welcome you before you speak into their lives. Clear Identification Builds Trust • “I, your father-in-law Jethro” removes any doubt about who is approaching. • Transparent introductions foster security and openness (cf. 2 Corinthians 8:20-21). • Lesson: State your relationship and intentions plainly; it prevents suspicion and shows integrity. Family Matters Come First • Jethro arrives “with your wife and her two sons.” • He reunites Moses with the household that had been apart during the Exodus events. • Lesson: Ministry success never excuses neglect of family (cf. 1 Timothy 3:4-5; Ephesians 6:4). • Practical tip: When helping others, consider how to strengthen—not sideline—their family ties. Humility From an Elder • As Moses’ senior and priest of Midian, Jethro could have claimed status. • Instead he approaches as a servant, later saying, “What you are doing is not good” only after being invited (18:17-19). • Lesson: Godly counsel begins with humility, not superiority (cf. Philippians 2:3; Matthew 20:26-27). Invitation Opens the Door to Counsel • By waiting for Moses’ response, Jethro ensures his forthcoming advice is welcomed. • Effective exhortation follows relationship, not the other way around (cf. Galatians 6:1). • Lesson: Seek permission before offering correction; it prepares hearts to receive truth. Practical Takeaways for Today • Ask, “Have I shown respect before I speak?” • Introduce yourself clearly; hidden agendas erode credibility. • Strengthen families whenever you step into someone’s life. • Let humility guide every interaction, even when you have experience or authority. • Wait for invitation; counsel that is requested bears more fruit than counsel imposed. Summing Up Jethro’s brief, courteous message models respectful approach, transparent identity, family priority, and humble readiness to serve—all foundational attitudes for believers who wish to influence others for God’s glory. |
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