Today we will talk about Exodus 18:31. Many Christians may not fully understand what this verse signifies. In this passage, we are introduced to the principles of justice and wise decision-making, which are integral to our walk of faith. Upon reading and meditating on this scripture, we hope to gain insights into how God desires us to handle our relationships and responsibilities. It’s a reminder of the importance of seeking counsel and making decisions that align with God’s guidance. So, let’s embark on this exploration of God’s word and discover what Exodus 18:31 can teach us!
Exodus 18 31 Bible Verse
Wise Counsel
In our journey of faith, seeking wise counsel is not just beneficial; it’s necessary for our spiritual growth. When we face decisions or challenges, turning to others who are grounded in faith can guide us toward righteous choices. Exodus 18:31 emphasizes the importance of heeding wise advice, reminding us to trust in the community of believers God has surrounded us with. Together, we can make better choices that reflect God’s will for our lives.
Proverbs 15:22
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” – Proverbs 15:22
Proverbs 19:20
“Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end, you will be wise.” – Proverbs 19:20
Proverbs 24:6
“For by wise guidance, you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors, there is victory.” – Proverbs 24:6
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Trust in God
Exodus 18:31 also calls us to trust in God’s direction. As we navigate life’s challenges, our faith should remain our anchor. Trusting in God means surrendering our uncertainties and believing that He has a divine plan tailored for each of us. This trust isn’t just passive; it encourages us to actively seek God’s will through prayer and the study of His Word. With trust in God, we can face any situation with the assurance that He holds our best interests in His hands.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Isaiah 26:4
“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” – Isaiah 26:4
Jeremiah 17:7
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.” – Jeremiah 17:7
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Psalm 56:3
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” – Psalm 56:3
The Importance of Justice
Justice is a crucial theme within Exodus 18:31. It reminds us that God desires fairness and righteousness in all our dealings. As a community of believers, it is our responsibility to uphold justice and ensure that our actions reflect God’s love and equity. Practicing justice involves treating others with respect and standing up for those who cannot defend themselves. When we promote justice in our lives, we act as instruments of His peace and love.
Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8
Psalm 82:3
“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” – Psalm 82:3
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” – Proverbs 31:8-9
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” – Isaiah 1:17
Romans 12:19
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” – Romans 12:19
Decision-Making
Exodus 18:31 urges us to approach decision-making thoughtfully and carefully. Every choice we make impacts our lives and the lives of those around us. We must seek God’s guidance in our decisions, ensuring that they align with His character and purpose. By doing so, we grow in wisdom and discernment, making choices that not only benefit us but also glorify God. In our shared faith journey, let us remember that good decision-making is rooted in prayer and divine wisdom.
James 4:15
“Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.'” – James 4:15
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Isaiah 30:21
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” – Isaiah 30:21
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Community Engagement
Exodus 18:31 emphasizes the importance of being involved in our communities. Community engagement is vital for strengthening our faith and fostering relationships built on love and support. When we serve others, we reflect God’s character and actively participate in His mission. Together, we can uplift one another and encourage growth, reinforcing the bonds of faith that unite us. In turning our focus toward community, we experience the beauty of God’s love in action.
1 John 4:11
“Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” – 1 John 4:11
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Acts 20:35
“In everything, I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work, we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” – Acts 20:35
Spiritual Leadership
Exodus 18:31 also brings forth the theme of spiritual leadership. For us, being a leader in the faith is not just about having authority; it’s about guiding others with love, humility, and integrity. As we strive to lead, we must also stay grounded in the teachings of Christ, leading by example and serving those who follow us. Effective spiritual leadership fosters growth and unity within the body of believers, encouraging everyone to pursue God with fervor and devotion.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
Titus 1:7
“Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain.” – Titus 1:7
1 Peter 5:2-3
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.” – 1 Peter 5:2-3
Matthew 20:26-28
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” – Matthew 20:26-28
Mark 9:35
“Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.'” – Mark 9:35
Faith in Action
Exodus 18:31 encourages us to translate our faith into action. It’s not enough just to believe; we must live out that belief through our deeds. This means engaging in acts of kindness, demonstrating love, and serving others in practical ways. When we put our faith into action, we show the world what it means to follow Christ. The heart of our faith is about demonstrating God’s love through our actions, which speaks louder than words.
James 2:17
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” – James 2:17
Matthew 7:20
“Thus, by their fruit, you will recognize them.” – Matthew 7:20
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23-24
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38
Gratitude and Thanksgiving
Exodus 18:31 invites us to embrace gratitude in every circumstance. A heart filled with thankfulness cultivates a positive outlook, enhancing our relationship with God. When we express our gratitude, we acknowledge God’s goodness and faithfulness. These moments of thanksgiving help us remember that He works everything together for our good. As we live gratefully, we invite joy, peace, and contentment into our lives, enriching our faith journey collectively.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Psalm 107:1
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15
Ephesians 5:20
“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Ephesians 5:20
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Living Faithfully
Finally, Exodus 18:31 reminds us of the significance of living faithfully before God and others. Our lives should be a testament to God’s grace and love, exemplifying the transformation He has made in us. Living faithfully includes being consistent in our worship, daily practices, and interactions with others. As we strive toward faithfulness, we influence those around us positively and reflect the heart of God, drawing others to His Kingdom.
Hebrews 13:16
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Matthew 25:23
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!'” – Matthew 25:23
1 Corinthians 4:2
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2
Revelation 2:10
“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” – Revelation 2:10
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on Exodus 18:31, we’ve discovered many important principles guiding our lives as Christians. Through wise counsel, we learn the value of seeking support from our community. Trust in God reassures us that He is always in control, even in uncertain times. Justice calls us to stand up for fairness, while decision-making encourages us to pray and seek divine guidance.
Our engagement in the community showcases God’s love and brings us closer together. We are reminded to lead with humility and serve wholeheartedly as we take our faith into action. A heart full of gratitude enriches our relationship with God, prompting us to live faithfully and reflect His light in the world.
In everything we do, let us strive to glorify God and bring joy to those around us. Exodus 18:31 transcends time, urging us to be wise in our lives, embrace love, and live as true followers of Christ.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Blog
30 Important Bible Verses About Solidarity (With Explanation)