June 6, 2009

Roles and Authority

Exodus 18
Moses shows character in leadership by listening to Jethro's God-given advice. Perhaps it would have been easy for Moses to disregard his father-in-law's suggestions. Afterall, he just led the people out of Egypt, crossed the Red Sea, provided water and bread and meat for them (through God's power). But Moses was not an arrogant leader to ignore good advice from another individual from God. Jethro saw that Moses would probably wear himself out by being the nation's full-time judge, so he advised Moses to appoint godly men over groups of people to take care of the daily problems. Big problems would be brought to Moses, but he should share the load with other men he trusted.
Select capable men from all people--men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain--and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Ex. 18:21 Moses was to be selective in choosing men for these jobs: Trustworthy, honest, no selfish ambition. Husbands are likely to make their wives their closest confidante's if they see that their wives can be trusted, they are honest, and are self-sacrificing. Even though Moses was relying on other men to lighten his load, he was still in authority over them. Jethro also suggested that Moses be the people's representative to God, not God to the people. He was to teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform. Ex. 18:20 This is a large responsibility in itself, and one that God calls husbands to be for their families. We are ultimately all responsible for our own actions and sins and personal relationships with Christ, but God has put the husband at the head of the home to teach, lead, protect, and pray for.

No comments: