Neville Turley

Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. Proverbs 13:10 (NIV)

One of the few things that are still freely given in this world, is advice.  Nations are always keen to tell other nations what they should be doing. Individuals are no different.

We are constantly being told what we should or should not do. How to react to such advice depends whether we think the advice is sound and applicable to us.  Jethro, also known as Reuel, was the father in-law of Moses. He was a priest and leader of the Midian tribe in the Sinai desert. A wise and hospitable man, he had given Moses refuge when Moses had to flee Egypt after killing an overseer.

Moses and Jethro got along well. Years later, after the Exodus, Moses was once again in the Sinai desert, not as a refugee but as a leader of his people. Jethro paid Moses a visit. Moses was delighted to welcome him.

Jethro was overjoyed to hear how God had delivered the Israelites from the hardships they had endured in Egypt.  “Now I know that the Lord is greater than all other gods, for he did this to those who had treated Israel arrogantly.” (Exodus 18:11)

Moses was a conscientious hands-on leader. Jethro saw how Moses served as sole judge from morning until evening, settling all disputes. He remonstrated with Moses; “What you are doing is not good… the work is too heavy for you. You cannot handle it alone.” (Exodus 18:17-18)

Jethro then gave Moses sound advice on the importance of delegating duties to suitably trained people. Moses would then be free to be the people’s representative before God and to handle the more complex cases.

It was golden advice which would ease the stress on Moses  “Moses listened to his father in-law and did everything, he said.” (Exodus 18:24)

It is also golden advice for CEOs, managers, team leaders and heads of families today. No one person can take total responsibility for everyone under their control.

They need time for themselves in order to focus on major issues. They need to take Jethro’s advice and delegate.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, enable us under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to lead structured lives that will bring honour and glory to you in Jesus name Amen