Legacy of Leadersნიმუში

Jethro | Wise Counsel

Read: Exodus 18

Having Moses as a son-in-law might have resulted in an intimidating relationship for many men. But evidently not for Jethro. At some point in God’s assignments, Moses sent his wife and two sons back to live with the in-laws until life was at a less taxing place. When Jethro heard about the success of the Exodus and the Israelites’ escape from Pharaoh, he took his daughter and two grandsons to see Moses, sending a message ahead to say they were coming.

After his family arrived at the Israelite camp near the Mountain of God and greeted one another, Moses shared with Jethro all the details of what God had done since they had last been together. Imagine how amazing it must have been to sit and listen to Moses recall the entire story of the battle with Pharaoh directly and personally in his own words. Jethro’s response was of great gratitude, so he brought offerings and sacrifices to God as the elders of Israel joined him.

The next day, Moses went to work to carry out his usual job of taking a seat to hear and settle issues among the people. People waited in line all day to stand before Moses. As Jethro watched this excruciatingly slow parade looking for counsel and intervention in many areas, he did what any good father-in-law would do: offered a better plan.

He questioned Moses on what the point was in all this work and why he was taking it on alone with no help. The bottom line of Moses’ answer was that he spoke for God and the people were all aware of that fact. So out of protection for his son-in-law, whom he loved and respected, coupled with his concern for the weary people waiting in line, Jethro warned Moses of the eventual consequences but then offered a God-inspired alternative.

“This is not good!” Moses’ father-in-law exclaimed. “You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself. Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice, and may God be with you. You should continue to be the people’s representative before God, bringing their disputes to him. Teach them God’s decrees, and give them his instructions. Show them how to conduct their lives.” (Exodus 18:17–20)

A good leader knows you can’t just present a problem and restate the obvious goal. You need to bring a solution and a viable plan to consider. Jethro did just that.

“But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten. They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes, but have them bring the major cases to you. Let the leaders decide the smaller matters themselves. They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you. If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.” (Exodus 18:21–23)

Essentially, Jethro described to his son-in-law the type of man he needed and then the specific structure to build around him and those key men. Feeling mutual respect for his father-in-law and knowing his heart for him and the nation, Moses listened intently, took the wisdom, agreed, and followed the plan to the letter. He sought out the right men, appointed them as leaders, gave them authority, and put them in charge of groups ranging from one thousand down to ten, depending on the needs. The men stepped up to the challenge and took on their new duties with great success. We can see from this description that the judicial systems of the ages are copies of this first governmental court system to hear grievances and offer judgments. Through his outside assessment and wisdom, acting as an ancient-day efficiency expert, Jethro brought balance to Moses and the entire nation.

Meditate and Journal

• Has there been a time when God used a family member or close friend to change your life by offering solid wisdom or godly counsel? Explain.
• Has God ever allowed you the opportunity to change the life of a family member or close friend with the advice and counsel you received from Him? Explain.

“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your flow chart of authority and how You have provided systems and plans for the practical and physical aspects of this life. Grant me the wisdom to listen to others who speak into my life from You, while I also listen and give to others for Your glory. In Jesus' name, amen.”

Memory Verse

Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.

Proverbs 11:14

Leaders delegate, mediate, educate, navigate, evaluate, motivate, and elevate.

While the world offers many paths, God offers one — His.