Sunday School Lesson July 21, 2024

Subject: Aaron and Hur

The Point: Leaders don’t lead without the help of others.

Scriptures: Exodus 17:8-13; 24:13-15

Study The Bible: Exodus 17:8-10

1). Be present to help as needed.

8. At Rephidim, Amalek came and fought against Israel.
9. Moses said to Joshua, “Select some men for us and go fight against Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the hilltop with God’s staff in my hand.”
10. Joshua did as Moses had told him, and fought against Amalek, while Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.

* Even as we journey toward the fulfillment of what God has promised, some will arise to challenge us and attempt to defeat our progress.

* How blessed are a people to have someone to provide leadership during difficult times.

* No one works alone; God has given us colaborers so that together we may accomplish His work.

* Even if we are not the leader, God has a place for us.

2). Be supportive by doing what you can.

Exodus 17:11-13

11. While Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, but whenever he put his hand down, Amalek prevailed.
12. When Moses’s hands grew heavy, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat down on it. Then Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on the other so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down.
13. So Joshua defeated Amalek and his army with the sword.

Lasting truths from: Exodus 17:11-13

*  We give our best and do our part, but none of us have the strength to win the battles of life alone.

* We prevail over difficulties and challenges by relying and at work.

* Our leaders need to know we stand beside them and are ready to support them.

* Even simple acts dedicated to the work of the Lord can be effective.

3). Be dependable no matter how great or small your assignment may be.

Exodus 24:13-15

13. So Moses arose with his assistant Joshua and went up the mountain of God.
14. He told the elders, “Wait here for us until we return to you. Aaron and Hur are here with you. Whoever has a dispute should go to them.”
15. When Moses went up the mountain, the cloud covered it.

Lasting truths from: Exodus 24:13-15

*  Leaders are wise to provide for leadership needs during periods of their absence.

* Strong leaders continue to develop leaders who can be his/her successor.

* Turning to individuals with experience who have proven themselves in other challenging situations is a natural source for finding supportive leaders.

* They were supportive, willing to do whatever they could no matter how small it might seem.

* They had proven they could be depended on.

As you reflect on this session, respond to the following questions:

1. Who do you admire as an effective leader? What qualities or traits do you see that makes that person effective?
2. In what situation have you found yourself in which, thought you were the primary leader, you recognized the need for others to join you if were to do the job well?
3. Where did you turn and what did you look for in the individuals you selected?
4. Consider the leaders in your church, especially your pastor and others church staff ministers. What could you do to provide support and encouragement to them, especially during times when they too may be struggling with the burden of leadership?
5. Some leaders may be hesitant to ask for help. How can you help leaders in your church to know that it is okay for them to seek the help of others without fear of being judged negatively; that the goal is to prevent them from being overloaded and overwhelmed?

Closing Prayer:

“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died on the cross to forgive me of my sins and rose from the dead to give me new life. I’m sorry for all the wrong I’ve done and ask You to forgive me. I now accept Your gift of eternal life. Thank You for Your love, forgiveness, and a new life in Jesus Christ. From this day forward, I choose to follow You. In Jesus’ name Amen.”

“If this lesson has been a blessing to you, leave us a comment.”