Numbers 11: Selected Verses 10-17
10 Moses heard the people of every family wailing at the entrance to their tents. The Lord became exceedingly angry, and Moses was troubled. 11 He asked the Lord, “Why have you brought this trouble on your servant? What have I done to displease you that you put the burden of all these people on me?’ 14 I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me……..
16 The Lord said to Moses: “Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. …………and I will take some of the power of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them. They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.
Have you ever thought “I can’t do this!” I know I have. I have a bad habit of not being able to say no. I want to do everything that I see but I cannot. My friend Brock always asks me “what am I going to give up in order to be able to take on something new?” I know that question so well that I ask it myself even before Brock gets his chance.
In the Book of Numbers, the Lord instructs Moses about how his burden can be reduced. James tells us that “we have not because we ask not.” Do you take on more than you should? Are you able to ask for help?
It seems that it is human nature to take on too much or at least a part of our culture. But it is not always our decision. Moses carried this burden because the Lord called him to lead Israel. Either way, we were never made to carry these things all by ourselves. Back in Genesis, God said “It is not good for man to be alone.” Because of that, God created a suitable helper because He did not want Adam to be overwhelmed. God wants to help. All you need do is ask. But if you’re like me, you don’t ask. Do you realize that God will bring you help to share the burden? You are important to Him. He wants to make your burden easier and help you accomplish that which He has destined you to do. Go ahead, ask Him! He loves you and wants to help. He is waiting to hear from you. Ask Him!
Father, thank You that You always stand ready to come to our aid whenever we call. Help us to know when to call. You said You would never leave nor forsake us and You are faithful. But we must ask before You will come. Help us to include You in our lives and ask You to walk with us. In Jesus name we pray!