Exodus 18:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Nothing distances us and causes separation from others quite like the assumption of self-sufficiency, which is why the Lord has designed us to be interdependent. Even if you are wise, you still rely on others; if you believe you are entirely self-reliant, you have become foolish and weaker than anyone. Those who think this way cut themselves off from all support, and should they falter in any aspect, they will refrain from seeking guidance or reconciliation, provoking God's displeasure with their pride and committing numerous transgressions. It often occurs, and frequently, that the learned do not recognize what is required, while those of lesser wisdom may bring it to light. This was evident in the instances of Moses and his father-in-law, Saul and his servant, and Isaac and Rebekah. Therefore, do not perceive it as a degradation to require assistance from others. Rather, it enhances your standing, fortifies you, and ensures your security.

Moses, who converses with the Lord, faces condemnation through the remarks of the foreigner Jethro, as he busies himself with trivial matters of the nations. Shortly thereafter, he was advised to appoint others to manage disputes, allowing him to delve more deeply into the spiritual truths necessary for guiding the nations. This way, those in lower positions can attend to mundane tasks while leaders can focus on loftier concerns, ensuring that the vision, which anticipates future directions, remains unclouded by earthly worries.

Who was Moses? A prophet, a lawgiver, a messenger of God. And who was Jethro? A priest of an uncertain faith, not among God's chosen ones, yet having a nascent understanding of the true God through Moses. “Now,” he declared, “I have seen that the Lord is greater than all gods” (Ex. 18:11). Do you think this Jethro could truly assist Moses? Despite that, Jethro observed Moses weighed down by the struggles of the people, felt compassion for him, and readily offered his assistance. He counseled Moses to implement a system of organization and gradual administration of judgments. This illustrates, I believe, a lesson in scripture: that those who perceive themselves as wise and spiritually advanced should not demean the simple and imperfect among them. Conversely, those who recognize their own spiritual shortcomings must not allow their feelings of inadequacy to deter their enthusiasm in providing spiritual aid to their neighbors according to their abilities and insights.