Delegating the Burdens

"I am not able to bear all these people alone, because the burden is too heavy for me." (Numbers 11:14 NKJV)

Moses is such an inspiration for us and holds a special inspiration for pastors. The guy didn't want the job of nation leader. In fact, he made every excuse he could think of before God at the burning bush. Then when God convinced him he was the man for the job he didn't exactly get the easiest draw. You think Job had it bad losing his family, wealth and friends? I say Moses had it worse.

Overwhelming stress regarding the salvation of people God said were His. Constant crabbing, disgruntled groaning, devastating dereliction of duty (come on, Aaron), and ridiculous ridicule hounded him at every turn. Liars, cheats, thieves, pagans, pretentious pious priests, wimps and partiers filled the camp. And finally the enormity of his task became too much.

"God," he cried. "I can't do this by myself. This is too much. And, by the way, why would you treat me like this?" (see verse 15)

God didn't leave him to stew in his discouraged, beaten down demeanor. God brought in the reinforcements. He taught Moses the power of teaching others and delegating the burden of ministry and life. 70 elders became Moses' team. Imagine what Moses could do by sharing the load with 70 people God had blessed especially for the task. God chose the 70 and anointed them with the same discernment and care Moses had been given. Moses went from "This is too much" to "Bring on the promised land!"

What have you been working out on your own? What has overwhelmed you? Why are you so determined to carry the weight of the world by yourself? Maybe it's time to train others to take your place. Maybe it's time to ask others to help carry the burden of sin or leadership with you. Perhaps it's time to bring your spouse into full knowledge of your life. Or maybe it's time you started helping carry others' burdens too.

Don't get discouraged and don't be selfish. God wants to place elders in your life to carry the weight of your world.