Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule:
Exodus 17-20
In Exodus 18, Jethro told Moses that his procedure, or lack of one, in hearing the people was not good. Moses would soon wear himself out with the countless demands upon his time. Jethro advised him to think differently about things. Jethro told him that he could actually expand his leadership base by delegating much of the decision-making to capable men. In doing so, Moses would not negate his own authority but enhance it. He would still be the primary teacher of the people and routinely teach them the word of God with its many laws and regulations.
Jethro specifically counseled him to organize the leaders into leaders over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. The chosen leaders were to be men of unblemished character who feared God and regarded him as sole Lord of Israel. They must be men who could be relied upon and who would not give in to the dishonest solicitations of people bent on getting their own way. In short, Moses must select men of sterling character who would honor God and represent the people’s true interests. Jethro advised Moses that he would still handle the more difficult decisions, but he would delegate the more routine matters to the leaders he chose. Moses listened and heeded the advice of his father-in-law, and he chose wise, capable leaders from the people.
The wise counsel of Jethro gave impetus to Israel’s budding governing structure that culminated in a trio, of sorts, consisting of priesthood, monarchy, and prophets. Alongside these would be elders, whose official function remains largely undefined until the New Testament. Such structure gave way to even more elaborate organization under King David, who expanded the priestly service and functions of the Levites. But the true genius of Israel’s government was its theocratic foundation that acknowledged God as the legitimate ruler. But structure alone would never ensure God’s blessing upon Israel. They would have to protect these structures against foreign and sinful intrusions, something they continually failed to do.
Prayer Requests:
Personal
- Lord, please help me to be a wise delegator as I lead the various ministries you allow me to lead.
- Lord, please help me to be a man of wise character and unquestioned integrity.
- Lord, please help me to teach those who follow how to genuinely lead.
Political
- Representative Karen Whitsett – District 009 – Detroit
- Representative Robert Wittenberg – District 27 – Oak Park
- Representative Angela Witwer – District 071 – Grand Ledge