Exodus Chapter 18: Verses 9-12 (NIV-UK)
Jethro was delighted to hear about all the good things the Lord had done for Israel in rescuing them from the hand of the Egyptians. He said, ‘Praise be to the Lord, who rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians and of Pharaoh, and who rescued the people from the hand of the Egyptians. Now I know that the Lord is greater than all other gods, for he did this to those who had treated Israel arrogantly.’ Then Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, brought a burnt offering and other sacrifices to God, and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat a meal with Moses’ father-in-law in the presence of God
Jethro was delighted to hear from Moses about all that the Lord had done for Israel. Moses’ testimony has assured Jethro of the authority and greatness of God. Perhaps he had been wavering or had doubts about the sovereignty of God.He and his daughter, Moses’ wife must have been wondering how things were going for Moses. We don’t know what their own relationship with God was, but it would have been difficult I’m sure for them to be waiting and wondering with little news. So, to hear of how God’s hand had moved on behalf of the Israelites caused Jethro to bring an offering and worship God.
We should never underestimate the difference that sharing our testimony, or story, might make to someone else. It might be the boost and encouragement that they need for their own journey. I know that I am always greatly encouraged to hear how God is moving in other lives.
Jethro was not disappointed that he hadn’t experienced the move of God directly. He could rejoice in hearing of God’s hand on other lives. That’s an important lesson for us too. We don’t always have to be at the forefront of a work of God to be able to rejoice and be glad in its success.
Dear Lord,
Jethro is a great example of how we should rejoice with others when God moves in their life and also reminds me how important it is to share what God is doing with others. Help me to do both these things with joy and gladness. I pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen.