Topic: Be Open To Counsel [DCLM Daily Manna 9 January 2019 Daily Devotional]
Text: Exodus 18:13-27 (KJV)
Key Verse: “Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God” (Exodus 18:19).
MESSAGE:
One of the secrets that make for success in life’s endeavour is the ability to be disposed to counsel. The truth is that no matter one’s experiences and attainments in life, one cannot possibly know everything. There is the need to count on the wisdom, knowledge and experiences of others if one is really going to go far in one’s calling.
From our passage today, we cannot but be challenged by the attitude of Moses to the counsel of his father-in-law. Jethro, who came to visit his son-in-law observed with interest and concern how Moses carried out his leadership responsibility. He was worried that if Moses, though having a good intention and doing a good work, should carry on the way he was going, he would soon wear out. He therefore counseled him to select capable hands to whom he would delegate some responsibilities while he would only see to very important matters.
It is instructive that Moses who had received his call and ministry directly from God did not despise the counsel of his father-in-law. There are a number of lessons we can take away from this. One is that divine call does not excuse us from equipping ourselves with necessary training and skills that can help us perform better in our calling. Two, we do not become perfect and absolute in knowledge just because we have been called directly by God. Three, to help us fulfil our call and mandate, God surrounds us with people whose knowledge, experiences and skills we need to succeed. Four, no matter how good and logical a counsel may be, it is important that we seek God’s face for His final word on it. Five, no leader is under any obligation to take to the counsel of others. He must understand that he is solely responsible for the outcome of whatever decision he takes. We need to be open to counsel if we must succeed in life.
Thought For The Day: You cannot always know everything; be open to wise advice.
Bible Reading In One Year: Genesis 26-28
DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
