What does Exodus 18:14 teach about the importance of wise counsel in leadership? Setting the scene Moses has led Israel out of Egypt and is now judging every dispute from morning until evening. Jethro, his father-in-law, observes this exhausting routine and raises a crucial question. The verse in focus “When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, ‘What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you sit alone as judge, while all the people stand around you from morning till evening?’” (Exodus 18:14) Immediate observations • Jethro’s question is loving correction, not criticism. • Moses’ solitary leadership is unsustainable for him and the nation. • God uses an outside voice to reveal a blind spot in a godly leader. Key truths about wise counsel • Even spiritually mature leaders need external wisdom. • Wise counsel often begins with a probing question that exposes underlying issues. • Counsel protects leaders from burnout and protects people from neglect. • Receiving counsel is an act of humility and obedience, not weakness. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 11:14 — “Where there is no guidance, the people fall, but in the abundance of counselors there is victory.” • Proverbs 15:22 — “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Acts 6:1-7 — The apostles delegate ministry to preserve focus on prayer and the Word. • 2 Timothy 2:2 — Paul instructs Timothy to entrust truth to reliable men who can teach others. • 1 Kings 12 — Rehoboam’s downfall when he rejects wise elders’ counsel. Practical implications for leaders today • Invite godly advisers to observe your leadership habits. • Evaluate tasks that could be delegated to capable others. • Schedule regular check-ins with mentors or elders for honest feedback. • Measure success by the health of the people, not by personal busyness. • Model a culture where seeking counsel is normal and celebrated. Summary Exodus 18:14 teaches that wise counsel is essential in leadership. God used Jethro to redirect Moses from solitary strain to shared responsibility, ensuring both leader and people thrived. Listening to godly counsel remains a hallmark of faithful, effective leadership. |
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