Daily Devotions
Exodus
"Let us know. Let us pursue the knowledge of the LORD. His going forth is established as the morning; He will come to us like the rain, like the latter and former rain to the earth." Hosea 6:3
Text: Exodus 18 : 21
IN THE DAYS OF THE PATRIARCHS
Things were much simpler way back in the days of the patriarchs! Abraham needed to look after his small family! The same may be said of Isaac. Jacob may have a larger family, but essentially, his role as leader was quite straightforward!
THE CONCEPT OF FORMAL LEADERSHIP
Moses was living in a very different set of circumstances! He was now leading a nation! He must expand his understanding of “formal leadership”. Jethro explained further.
“Moreover you shall select from all the people able men,
such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness;
and place such over them to be rulers of thousands,
rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens.”
EXODUS 18:21
1. The necessity of having more people to step forward to serve
That there was a necessity for more to serve alongside was obvious! Moses must recognize this need and then act upon it!
2. Eliminating fears
Did Moses fear that the quality of leadership might be compromised? There was no need to fear that if he had a good set of criteria to select would-be leaders!
3. Criteria of leadership
Jethro gave excellent ideas. His concept of leadership was based on character! Skills were not the main focus- character was!
a) “Fear (of) God”
These men must fear God. That is the most foundational of principles!
b) “Men of truth”
They must also be people who love truth. In that they love truth, they would have forsaken the way of falsehood!
c) “Hating covetousness”
Leadership is not without problems. Those who lack integrity will soon see themselves tempted and corrupted along the way. Good leaders must not be covetous!
A CHANCE TO SERVE ALONGSIDE
If these basic criterion were met, then these may be entrusted with the work of shepherding the children of Israel! Some may even possess skills to lead very well!