More Than Just Love: A Devotional for ParentsSample

Even Moses Needed Community

This devotion is contributed by Amy Curtis. Amy has a PhD in family therapy and serves the families of Buckner through counselling. Her expertise has guided us in a better understanding of how to love and nurture our children.

In Numbers 11, Moses takes his burdens, exhaustion and his needs to the Lord. He’s reached the point where he just can’t do it anymore. He states he’d rather die than carry the burdens of these people on his shoulders any longer. In his conversation with God, he sounds angry – almost even sarcastic.

“Did I conceive all these people?” – Numbers 11:12

What you learn from Moses, Stephanie and Buck is the importance of authenticity – being real with God. As a therapist with Buckner, I can try desperately to help those who are struggling, to support healing for those who’ve experienced harm, and to encourage those who are exhausted and depleted. But if they can’t see their needs clearly or aren’t willing to accept help, the therapeutic relationship is strained or even non-existent.

God knew Moses needed help, but He also was waiting for Moses to ask for it. And once He asked, God didn’t hesitate to meet Moses’ needs.

In this passage between Moses and God, God didn’t shame Moses for asking for His help or even for his anger.

God didn’t say, “What’s the matter with you, Moses? I asked you to do one thing and you’re not doing it!”

And Moses didn’t respond, “No worries, God – I’ve got it all on my own.”

Instead, the Lord told Moses to gather those he trusted together, and God would anoint them to serve beside Moses. This created a community for Moses. Community is especially important when it comes to being a parent.

Moses already knew who to gather. He knew the leaders. He knew who he could trust. Pull your trusted friends and leaders together to serve alongside you.

Remember: Your willingness to ask for help and to be authentic about your strengths, weaknesses and needs can make or break your ability to serve those God has entrusted in your care as a parent.