Moses explained not only how to handle spiritual matters but also civil matters in his final instructions before the people entered the Land:
“If a matter arises which is too hard for you to judge, between degrees of guilt for bloodshed, between one judgment or another, or between one punishment or another, matters of controversy within your gates, then you shall arise and go up to the place which the Lord your God chooses" (Deuteronomy 17:8).
He recognized that there were going to be some matters that were too difficult or complex for local officials to handle and when that happened, they were to go to those with more experience or wisdom. This foreshadowed what Paul wrote about life in Christ's body:
There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).
There are limitations to what you can do by God's design, which is why you need to establish relationships with people who can help you do what you can't. That may be teachers, coaches, mentors, or experts and that may involve consulting them not only in person but also through their writings or other published sources--and they may be people who are not people of faith but who have distinguished themselves in your area of expertise or gifting.
Do you recognize your limitations and freely seek the help or input of others? Who speaks into your life? Who have you identified as capable beyond your level of skill, knowledge, or wisdom? Perhaps there are people who simply inspire you and you access them for encouragement or motivation? Whatever the reason, having some "go to" people is a must if you want to be effective and grow, taking into account your God-given potential and limitations.
Comments