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Jethro

Jethro was a Midianite priest and the father-in-law of Moses who provided shelter and counsel to the prophet during his exile from Egypt. His wisdom and faith in God exemplified the principle that divine truth transcends ethnic and national boundaries.

Overview

Moses fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian taskmaster and found refuge in Midian with Jethro, a priest of that land. Jethro welcomed Moses, gave him his daughter Zipporah in marriage, and allowed him to shepherd his flocks. Despite being a foreigner, Jethro demonstrated genuine faith in the God of Israel and later advised Moses on establishing a system of judges to share the burden of leadership.

Key Scriptures

"Now Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian" (Exodus 3:1, ESV). "And Moses was content to dwell with the man, and he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah" (Exodus 2:21, ESV). Jethro advised Moses: "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 perform it alone" (Exodus 18:17-18, ESV).

Application

Seek wise counsel from godly people regardless of their background, and recognize that God's wisdom often comes through unexpected sources and relationships.

Scripture References 8
Exodus 2:15 Exodus 2:16 Exodus 2:17 Exodus 2:18 Exodus 2:19 Exodus 2:20 Exodus 2:21 Exodus 2:22
Full Topical Reference List 8 total — Nave's Topical Bible

Called Raguel and Reuel, a priest of Midian. Moses spent forty years of exile with, and married his daughter.

Exodus 2:15 Exodus 2:16 Exodus 2:17 Exodus 2:18 Exodus 2:19 Exodus 2:20 Exodus 2:21 Exodus 2:22
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