Father’s Day Minute: 

Good morning, everyone, and Happy Father's Day! Before we dive into our sermon, let's take a moment to honor the godly fathers and father figures among us today. Each of you holds a special place in our hearts and lives, and today, we want to recognize your incredible influence and love.

As I reflected on biblical fatherhood, I have a vague memory from my own childhood that I’d like to share. There’s a photograph of me at around two or three years old, not much older than my own daughter is now, standing proudly in my father's oversized boots. They reached up to my hips and were nearly impossible to walk in, yet I was beaming with pride, determined to follow in his footsteps. 

This memory beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be a father. Just as our children look up to us, striving to emulate our actions, we too are encouraged by Paul in Ephesians 5:1-2 to be "imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ loved us." 

Today, as we celebrate fatherhood, let's reflect on how we can model our lives after our Heavenly Father. How can we embody His love, compassion, and wisdom in our homes and communities? Proverbs 20:7 says, “The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him.” Fathers, I hope you know that your dedication and faithfulness are a legacy that blesses not only your children but also extends to future generations. 

We also acknowledge that Father’s Day can be a mixed experience for many. Some of us may recall a father who wasn’t present or didn’t reflect the love and integrity we celebrate today. Others might be grieving the loss of a father or grappling with the challenges of fatherhood. To those feeling this weight, know that you are not alone. Psalm 68:5-6 reminds us that God is “Father of the fatherless and… God settles the solitary in a home.” Our Heavenly Father fills every void and provides the love and care we need.

As we begin our service, let's celebrate the gift of fatherhood and honor the godly men who shape our lives. May our time together be filled with gratitude, hope, and a deep sense of God's unwavering love. Happy Father's Day, and may we all strive to walk more faithfully in the steps of our Heavenly Father.

Series Introduction: 

Today, we continue our journey with the Israelites through the wilderness. We’ll be focusing on Exodus 18:1-27, where Moses has a reunion with his father-in-law, Jethro. Through this joyful reunion, God reveals many lessons that are just as timely today as they were to the Israelites thousands of years ago. Let us begin with a reading of God’s Word:

Scripture Reading: 

Exodus 18:1-27 (ESV) Jethro, the priest of Midian, Moses' father-in-law, heard of all that God had done for Moses and for Israel his people, how the Lord had brought Israel out of Egypt. Now Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, had taken Zipporah, Moses' wife, after he had sent her home, along with her two sons. The name of the one was Gershom (for he said, “I have been a sojourner in a foreign land”), and the name of the other, Eliezer (for he said, “The God of my father was my help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh”). Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, came with his sons and his wife to Moses in the wilderness where he was encamped at the mountain of God. And when he sent word to Moses, “I, your father-in-law Jethro, am coming to you with your wife and her two sons with her,” Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. And they asked each other of their welfare and went into the tent. Then Moses told his father-in-law all that the Lord had done to Pharaoh and to the Egyptians for Israel's sake, all the hardship that had come upon them in the way, and how the Lord had delivered them. And Jethro rejoiced for all the good that the Lord had done to Israel, in that he had delivered them out of the hand of the Egyptians.

Jethro said, “Blessed be the Lord, who has delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians and out of the hand of Pharaoh and has delivered the people from under the hand of the Egyptians. Now I know that the Lord is greater than all gods, because in this affair they dealt arrogantly with the people.” And Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God; and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat bread with Moses' father-in-law before God.

The next day Moses sat to judge the people, and the people stood around Moses from morning till evening. When Moses' father-in-law saw all that he was doing for the people, he said, “What is this that you are doing for the people? Why do you sit alone, and all the people stand around you from morning till evening?” And Moses said to his father-in-law, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God;  when they have a dispute, they come to me and I decide between one person and another, and I make them know the statutes of God and his laws.” Moses' father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone. Now obey my voice; I will give you advice, and God be with you! You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God, and you shall warn them about the statutes and the laws, and make them know the way in which they must walk and what they must do. Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. And let them judge the people at all times. Every great matter they shall bring to you, but any small matter they shall decide themselves. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you. If you do this, God will direct you, you will be able to endure, and all this people also will go to their place in peace.”

So Moses listened to the voice of his father-in-law and did all that he had said. Moses chose able men out of all Israel and made them heads over the people, chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. And they judged the people at all times. Any hard case they brought to Moses, but any small matter they decided themselves. Then Moses let his father-in-law depart, and he went away to his own country.

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with grateful hearts, seeking to hear and understand Your Word. As we gather to reflect on the life of Moses and the lessons from Your scriptures, we ask for open hearts and receptive minds. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may grasp the significance of a godly testimony and the humility to receive Your wisdom. Help us to see the ways You have worked in our lives and give us the courage to share these stories with others. Guide us to find balance in our lives, making space for rest and reflection amidst our busyness. May Your truth transform us and equip us to live out Your will. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

I. The Power of a Godly Testimony

Our passage begins this morning by describing Moses’ joyful reunion with his father-in-law, Jethro. However, the scripture we read was more than just a father-in-law and his son-in-law catching up after being separated for many months. This was an opportunity for Moses to testify to the saving power of the LORD. Moses’ testimony amazed Jethro. Though Jethro was a priest of Midian and an outsider to the covenant people of Israel, he was moved to declare, "Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods" (Exodus 18:11, ESV). 

Recall how God had told Moses that their deliverance from Egypt would not only be a sign for the Israelites, but also for the Egyptians and the surrounding nations, so that all would know the saving might of the Lord. Jethro's recognition of the LORD’s greatness is, in part, a fulfillment of this promise, demonstrating how God uses testimonies to reveal His divine plan and character to those who are not yet under the saving grace of God. 

Just as Moses’ testimony lead to an acknowledgment of God from a priest of Midian, so too can, our testimonies bridge the gap between unbelief and faith, inviting others to encounter the living God through our lived experiences of God’s salvation.

The Psalmist declares in Psalm 145:10-12,

 "All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your saints shall bless you! They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom and tell of your power, to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom" (Psalm 145:10-12, ESV). 

This scripture urges all who have experienced God’s goodness to share His story, to make His deeds known far and wide. Likewise, in the New Testament, Peter reminds us,

 "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9, ESV). 

We, as followers of Christ, are set apart not to be silent but to declare the marvelous works of Him who saved us. Our stories of redemption and grace are not just personal treasures to be remembered but are also powerful tools for extending God’s kingdom. When we testify about what God has done in our lives, we extend an invitation for others to come and experience His love and power. Just as Moses' testimony opened Jethro’s eyes to God's greatness, our stories can draw others to Christ. 

You may not think your testimony has power, but I assure you that it does. If you have ever worked in advertising, then you know that the most effective form of advertising is the one you can’t buy or manufacture, and that is “word of mouth.” If I see an advertisement for a new restaurant opening in town, I may think about checking it out. If I see dozens of advertisements for that same restaurant, I am even more likely to check it out. But if I hear people talking about how great the new restaurant is and how I have to try it sometime because the food is so amazing, I am far more likely to go out of my way to see what all the hype is about. 

Now apply that to our gospel witness. It is easy to pass by a billboard or a church sign telling you how great Jesus is without thinking twice about it. Maybe if you happen to hear a Christian preacher or a gospel song on the radio, you might listen for a minute or two. But imagine if you heard people talking about the love, the joy, and the peace that they found in Jesus. Imagine hearing about the love people feel in their church community or hearing people speak about how their faith carried them through so many of life’s ups and downs. That spoken testimony is far more likely to get someone to open up a Bible, or walk through a church door, or just to open up and ask about this Jesus they hear so many people talking about. 

In a world desperate for hope, the good news of Jesus Christ must be shared. Our friends, neighbors, and even strangers need to hear that God loves them, that Jesus died for their sins, and that eternal life is possible because the grave could not hold Him. We are Christ’s ambassadors, entrusted with the mission to share His message of hope and salvation, and one of the most effective ways to do this is to share all the ways you have found it to be true in your own life. 

II. Overcoming The Idol of Busyness 

As we delve deeper into today's passage, we find ourselves alongside Moses, who bore the immense responsibility of being the sole judge for the entire nation of Israel. The scripture captures this vividly: "The next day Moses sat to judge the people, and the people stood around Moses from morning till evening" (Exodus 18:13, ESV). Imagine the relentless flood of disputes and concerns he addressed daily. This role as judge was crucial for upholding justice and order among the people, yet it was undeniably exhausting for Moses.

In our fast-paced world, we often equate busyness with success. When asked how we’re doing, we frequently boast about our packed schedules and endless to-do lists. Our culture treats exhaustion as a badge of honor, subtly implying that our worth is measured by our productivity. However, this mindset is detrimental not only to our physical health but also to our spiritual well-being, as it contradicts the biblical principle of hard work and regular rest.

The passage about Moses resonates deeply because we all encounter our own “Moses moments,” where the weight of our responsibilities seems overwhelming. Even Moses, with his profound faith and leadership abilities, experienced what we now recognize as burnout. This underscores a vital truth: no matter how capable we are, we all have limits. We are not designed to shoulder every burden alone. Moses’ struggle serves as a powerful reminder that we require rest and the support of others.

A recent study by the Pew Research Center revealed that 60% of Americans feel too busy to enjoy life fully. I worry that many of us have turned busyness into an idol, believing that our value hinges on our productivity. This ceaseless drive for accomplishment or to maximize our time often leads us to overlook one of God’s fundamental commandments: the call to rest.

Ignoring the need for rest isn't just a health issue; it’s a spiritual issue as well. The fourth commandment instructs us: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work" (Exodus 20:8-10, ESV). Consistently neglecting this commandment is a sin, as it disregards God’s intention for us to find rest and rejuvenation.

Furthermore, our reluctance to delegate responsibilities often stems from a form of pride. We may believe that we must do everything ourselves because we assume no one else can do it as well as we can. This attitude is impractical and, more importantly, sinful, as it elevates our abilities over God’s provision through others. This subtle form of pride needs to be acknowledged and addressed.

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus offers a beautiful invitation to those who are weary and burdened: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV). 

How often do we reject this invitation, insisting on carrying everything ourselves? Seeking help is often seen as a weakness, but in reality, it is an act of wisdom and humility. Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, rightly observed: "What you are doing is not good. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone" (Exodus 18:17-18, ESV).

If you find yourself constantly overwhelmed by an overpacked schedule, I encourage you to evaluate your commitments critically. Sadly, when our schedules become too full, the first things we sacrifice are often what our bodies and souls need most. We forfeit our rest, our quiet time with the Lord, and the unrushed moments with friends and family that bring purpose and joy to our lives. Sometimes, we need to quit something good to make time for something greater.

Even Jesus Himself "...would withdraw to desolate places and pray" (Luke 5:16, ESV). Are we more capable than the Son of God? Jesus, whose mission was far more critical than anything on our agenda, prioritized rest and communion with His Heavenly Father as essential to His well-being and mission on earth. We must make rest a non-negotiable part of our lives. God's command to "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy" (Exodus 20:8, ESV) emphasizes the importance of rest and spiritual rejuvenation.

I might be stepping on some toes here, but please hear this message from a place of love and concern. As you think about your various activities and commitments, do so through the lens of the gospel. The Apostle Paul urges us, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:15-16, ESV). For the sake of your soul, you may need to release what is non-essential and prioritize what aligns with God’s purposes for your life. During my time as a youth minister, I often saw parents prioritizing every sport, club, and extracurricular over church attendance, only to later wonder why their children didn’t prioritize church in college. I would always try to give an encouraging word, but a part of me really wanted to ask why they thought their kids would prioritize something that they clearly did not prioritize themselves.

Today, on Father’s Day, I want to extend a special encouragement to all the fathers among us. Fathers play a crucial role in their families' lives. Every sociological study and scripture affirms that fathers have a profound impact on their families’ mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

Reflecting on the role of fathers today, my message is not about adding more to your already full plates. It’s not a call to “do better” or to “do more.” Instead, it’s about focusing on what truly matters and aligning your life with God’s design. In Exodus 18, Moses faced the overwhelming task of leading the Israelites, and his father-in-law, Jethro, offered wise counsel to delegate some duties to others. This allowed Moses to concentrate on the most critical tasks and avoid burnout—a valuable lesson for fathers today.

Fathers, like Moses, often juggle numerous responsibilities. They balancing work, family, and personal commitments. It’s easy to feel stretched thin, burdened by expectations. But just as Jethro advised Moses, there is wisdom in simplifying our lives and focusing on what truly matters. Perhaps the key is not finding time to add even more onto your already packed schedule but rather to let go of some things so that you have more time to invest in the things that will actually matter 10,000 years from now (your faith and your family). Fathers, it might be time to let go of some activities and obligations that, while good, are not the most important. Your family should see you not just as a man who does many great things but as a man who does a few things well, who makes time for prayer, who makes time for God’s Word, and who prioritizes his faith and family.

Now men, in case you feel like I just kicked you in the ribs on your special day, I want to give you a word of encouragement. Your presence here today speaks volumes. It shows your commitment to what matters most, and you are already doing far better than you may realize. I truly believe that only good fathers care whether or not they are good fathers. The bad fathers are not going to care enough to feel the weight of responsibility. No one is calling you to be a perfect father because that role has already been taken. We are simply calling you to love and lead your family to the best of your ability and to lean on the Lord for your strength. Remember that your faith and your family are treasures worth guarding above all else, and keep your eyes on the heavenly prize. Know that you have a church family to support you and a God who will strengthen and equip you for the glorious calling you have been given.

III. A Word on Church Leadership

Now, so far, we have been focused primarily on applying this wisdom to our own lifes, but I believe we would be missing an important parallel if we did not apply this passage to our church as well. What was true for Moses and Israel holds true for us today. Leaders often encounter overwhelming demands and pressures. Without sufficient support, burnout becomes a serious risk, leading to exhaustion and diminished effectiveness. Recognizing this, God designed the church to operate with multiple leaders; pastors, elders,  and deacons, who share the responsibilities of ministry. In Acts 6:1-7, the apostles appointed deacons to oversee daily tasks, allowing them to dedicate themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word. Similarly, Paul instructed Titus to appoint elders in every town to ensure that the church was well-governed and that no single leader bore the burden alone. This model of shared leadership fosters a healthier and more sustainable approach to ministry.

At the same time, we need to understand that the church is a community where everyone is actively involved in ministry rather than the exclusive duty of a select few. Paul beautifully illustrates this in his letter to the Corinthians, describing the church as the body of Christ. He explains that just as a body requires all its parts to function properly, the church needs every member to contribute their gifts and talents to maintain its health and vitality (1 Corinthians 12:12-27, ESV). 

One of my favorite verses on this topic is found in Ephesians:

"And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds, and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:11-12, ESV).

Notice how Paul never suggests that ministry is solely the responsibility of the apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds (pastors), or teachers. These church leaders are not called to do all the work themselves but to equip the saints—that’s every believer—to be effective in their ministry efforts. 

I’ve often heard it said that 10% of the members do 90% of the work in most churches. If this is true, I believe that Dover is certainly an above-average church. However, this does not exempt us from striving towards the ideal. The ideal church is one where every member is actively engaged in ministry, equipped by the leadership, and supported by the community. 

If you have been a member for quite some time and have yet to really take on the role of ministry, I would encourage you to prayerful seek out where God may be calling you to serve. Likewise, if you are one of the faithful few who works hard and carries an abnormally large burden, I suggest that you begin to prayerfully think of who you can partner with and train to come alongside you. Even Moses had to share the responsibility of leadership and, one day, would have to pass on his role to Joshua. In Biblical language, we call this discipleship. For many of us, this may not come naturally, but the kingdom of God is best served by many people serving well and training up others to do the same rather than a few people doing all the work and getting tired and frustrated every step of the way.  We each have a vital role to play here in this church family, and I believe that if we are humble, teachable, and prayerful, the Lord will make our next steps clear. 

Conclusion:

As we conclude, let's respond to today’s message with open hearts and a commitment to act. May we be a people who make time to reflect on how God has worked in our lifes, being prepared to share our testimony as a beacon of hope to others. May we be a people who learn to reassess our busy schedules so that we can create space for both work and rest. May we be a people open to receiving wisdom and correction from those God has placed in your life, receiving both wisdom and correction with humility and grace. Lastly, may we be a people who are actively engaged in your church's life and mission, knowing that every role you play strengthens the body of Christ. Together, let’s honor God by living humbly, resting in His provision, sharing His grace, and shining His light in the world.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, as we conclude this time together, we thank You for the truths revealed through Your Word. Help us to carry these lessons into our daily lives. Grant us the boldness to share our testimonies so that others may come to know Your love and power. Teach us to prioritize rest and to seek Your guidance humbly. Empower us to serve in our church with joy and dedication, knowing that every role is crucial in Your kingdom. As we go forth, may we shine Your light brightly in our communities, honoring You in all we do. We ask this in Your precious name. Amen.