Jethro’s suggestion that Moses share his burden of judging the people was wise – it was a way for Moses and the people to be more efficient and to avoid burnout. Sharing our burdens with others is more than that; it is Gospel-centered as well.

When we carry our burdens by ourselves, we are walking in pride. We want to show others, and ourselves, that we are strong enough to carry the weight or that no one else can help us. But when we gladly invite others to come alongside us and share the load we have been given, we walk in humility – the natural posture of people under the power of the Gospel. We recognize that we are not strong, but weak. We are not independent, but dependent on Christ and His Church. Christ’s strength is manifested in our weakness, His glory in our humility and neediness, and His love in His faithful provision. Sharing burdens with one another, as with all of what God does in our lives, is for His glory and our good.

• When have you refused to share a burden? Why? What happened?