The Good of Others
Read This Week: Exodus 18
The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. When his father-in-law, Jethro, saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, “What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?” Moses answered him, “Because the people come to me to seek God’s will. Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I decide between the parties and inform them of God’s decrees and instructions.” – Exodus 18:13-16 NIV
William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, once said, “Some men’s passion is for gold. Some men’s passion is for art. Some men’s passion is for fame. My passion is for others and their souls.” Exodus 18 presents a significant turning point in the story of the Israelites’ journey to freedom through the wilderness. It introduces Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, who offers invaluable advice that shapes the future of Israelite governance and administration and reminds Moses that it is about others, especially those in the family of God.
Jethro’s arrival is not just a familial visit; it symbolizes the importance of community and support systems. He brings Moses’ wife and children, highlighting the need to maintain family bonds even amidst leadership responsibilities. It’s crucial to foster relationships that ground us in our lives, providing both emotional support and practical advice.
Jethro, as a Midianite priest, offers an outsider’s perspective. His observation of Moses’ overwhelming workload prompts him to suggest a more sustainable leadership model. This insight teaches us the value of seeking external opinions. Sometimes, those outside our immediate situation can provide insights we might overlook, encouraging us to critically evaluate our practices and strategies.
One of Jethro’s primary recommendations is for Moses to delegate responsibilities to capable leaders. This opinion alleviates Moses’ burden and empowers others within the community. Effective delegation is a cornerstone of successful leadership. It fosters a sense of ownership among team members and allows leaders to focus on strategic decision-making rather than getting bogged down by daily tasks that take away from serving other people.
Jethro’s advice leads to the establishment of a judicial system, promoting order and fairness within the community. This underscores the necessity of having an approach in place to manage growing responsibilities effectively. In any church, organization, or community, clear structures can help prevent chaos and ensure that everyone understands their roles.
Moses’ willingness to listen to Jethro demonstrates humility and the importance of being open to advice. Leaders, in any context, should be receptive to feedback and willing to adapt their strategies. Wisdom often comes from unexpected places, and acknowledging this can lead to more effective leadership.
Jethro’s concern for the well-being of Moses and the people emphasizes that leadership is not just about authority but about service. Influential leaders prioritize the needs of others, ensuring that they are not overwhelmed and that their needs are met. This can apply to various contexts, from families, churches, and workplaces to community organizations, where the focus should be on the well-being of others and not on a self-serving agenda.
Jethro’s wisdom not only helps Moses but also sets a foundation for the governance of a nation and provides a modern-day example for us. As we reflect on these principles, we can apply them to our own lives, enhancing our effectiveness as leaders and our connections with those around us. The question we should ponder is, what is our passion? Is it for ourselves, our gain, or is it for the good of others?