Scripture Focus- Exodus 18
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The Exodus was behind them and the Promised Land was in front of them. But between Egypt and Canaan were many trials, and many demands that would test the leadership capability of Moses. As his responsibilities increased and the load became heavier, Moses was swamped with the varied needs and details of organizing such a large group of people. Without realizing it, he had taken on more than he could bear in administrative functions, judicial functions, and an endless list of problems and daily issues. From morning until evening Moses labored.
He quickly came face to face with his own limitations. Thankfully, Moses' father in law Jethro came to diagnose the situation and offer some practical counsel. Jethro came to reunite the family but also because he had heard all that God had done for Moses and for Israel. He rightly observed that what Moses was doing was not good.
Jethro posed two questions: What is this thing you are doing for the people? This was a question of priorities. The second question was related to personnel. Why not utilize others to accomplish the task? Jethro offered some powerful wisdom and clear insight.
1) Pray for the people. v19
2) Minister the Word to people. v20
3) Lead others to lead. v21
4) Organize the people into manageable groups. v21
5) Retain the difficult cases. v22
6) Leaders will endure, and the people will be satisfied.
Principles for Application to Multiply the Ministry:
-Determine what your essential responsibilities are, and delegate the others.
- Recognize that increased workload is an opportunity to live this out in real time.
- Realize that if you violate God's principles you will suffer the consequences.
-Understand that efficiency and excellence is actually sacrificed when we exhaust ourselves.
- You will recognize the giftings and abilities of others.
- You will release the organization to be all that God wants it to be.
