Being a leader is never a simple task. There is always planning to be done, projects to develop, and communication lines to keep open. There are many blessing in being a leader. Casting a vision, implementing new ideas, and seeing the fruit of your labor!
Moses was the leader for the children of Israel and he had many responsibilities to God and the nation of Israel. He was the one who constantly asked Pharaoh to release Israel from slavery, he was the “go to man” when the Israelites were hungry and thirsty, and he was responsible for hearing and judging all the daily disputes. Wow! Talk about pressure!
On top of all that, Moses didn’t have John Maxwell, David Allen, or Stephen Covey to turn to or read their leadership books or attend their organization seminars. (These men do write and speak very well on this topic and have very helpful tips and advice for all types of leaders).
What did Moses do?!! He turned to Jethro, his father-in-law! Turn to Exodus 18. Jethro came for a visit and after the “hi, how are you?” he quickly noticed that Moses was overwhelmed by deciding on people’s matters and disputes. Moses was doing this all day (“morning to evening”) and everyday by himself (v.13).
Jethro questions Moses about this tremendous workload (v.14) and then gives some awesome advice (v.17-18) on how to be an effective leader that is still valid for leaders today!
Effective Leaders Listen (v.19-20, 24) – Moses carefully listened to and practiced Jethro’s advice and it worked! Effective leaders must be humble and teachable. It’s very easy to “dig your heels in” and not allow anyone to help you. Leaders who insist doing everything themselves won’t last long. Leaders who listen will endure.
Effective Leaders Delegate (v.21, 25) – Moses went out and enlisted qualified men to help in with this daily task. We would call this delegation. Effective leaders are always searching for and recruiting qualified people to help them carry out tasks. Why? Because this allows you to get more done as well as train others. Proper delegation isn’t laziness or an unwillingness to do certain tasks; it’s just a tool that includes other people’s talents and abilities.
Effective Leaders Enable (v.22) – Moses appointed these men to their designated areas and trained them to oversee. Effective leaders just don’t delegate and then abandon. They take time to lay out expectations, responsibilities, and resources. Behind every solid leader there is a group of trained followers.
Effective Leaders Assist (v.22, 26) – After Moses recruited these men to serve he didn’t go sip lemonade by the Red Sea and cruise on his camel all day! He was still involved; he was still meeting the needs of the people just more effectively and without needless stress. He was available for counsel on hard matters (v.26). Effective leaders stay involved and keep their sanity!
Jethro’s Advice is still helpful for today. If you are willing to install these principles into your leadership roles you will establish longevity (v.23), make a greater impact (v.25-26), and appreciate your in-laws (v.27) (I threw that last one in 
Photo Above taken by: CELALTEBER (www.sxc.hu)
