January 15

No Room for Jealousy

I wish that all the LORD’S people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them! (Numbers 11:29).

Scripture: Numbers 11:24-30

Song: “A Glorious Church”

Sean’s hand trembled as he dialed the phone. Was he failing as a leader? What would his congregation think? With a shaky voice, he explained his church’s need to the minister of the church across town. “We can’t pay our rent. We are struggling, yet we desire to share the good news.”

The fellow minister replied, “Our congregation will support your church financially for the next several months. You are not alone.” Sean gratefully accepted the help.

Moses displayed a constant faith in God and fervor for holiness. However, he grew exhausted from the weight of leadership on his shoulders. God responded by giving 70 Israelite elders a portion of His Spirit. Moses was not offended; instead, he praised God for the help. He was happy that God was speaking rather than feeling jealous over who He was using.

Spreading the gospel is an enormous responsibility, so we ask for help so we do not burn out. Humility recognizes limitations. Competition doesn’t belong in God’s kingdom but encouragement and grace do. When we co-labor with fellow believers, we advance His kingdom. More voices proclaim His love. More hands to do His will. We are not soloists. We are a united choir for His glory. His Spirit is on all of us—let’s do more together.

Father God, thank You for Your people everywhere who are ready to do Your work together. Let us brightly burn for You in a dark, discouraged world. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.