Exodus 18:19

Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people's representative before God and bring their causes to Him.

Study Bible

Now listen to me
This phrase marks a pivotal moment of transition and instruction. In Hebrew, the word for "listen" is "שְׁמַע" (shema), which implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. This is reminiscent of the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, a central declaration of faith in Judaism. Here, Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, is urging Moses to pay careful attention to his advice, highlighting the importance of wise counsel and the humility required to receive it.

I will give you counsel
The Hebrew word for "counsel" is "עֵצָה" (etsah), which denotes advice or guidance, often with a divine or wise connotation. Jethro, a priest of Midian, offers Moses practical wisdom that is both spiritual and administrative. This reflects the biblical principle that God often uses others to impart wisdom and guidance, emphasizing the value of community and mentorship in leadership.

and God be with you
This phrase is a blessing and a reminder of divine presence. The Hebrew word for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), a plural form that denotes majesty and power. Jethro's blessing underscores the necessity of God's presence in leadership and decision-making. It is a reminder that human efforts must be undergirded by divine support and guidance, aligning with the biblical theme of God’s omnipresence and sovereignty.

You must be the people's representative before God
The term "representative" in Hebrew is "לְעָם" (le'am), meaning "for the people." Moses is called to be an intermediary, a role that foreshadows the priestly and prophetic offices in Israel. This highlights the biblical concept of mediation, where Moses acts as a bridge between God and the Israelites, pointing ultimately to Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

and bring their disputes to Him
The Hebrew word for "disputes" is "דְּבָרִים" (devarim), which can mean words, matters, or cases. This indicates that Moses is to present the people's issues before God, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine wisdom in resolving conflicts. It reflects the biblical principle of justice and the need for leaders to seek God's guidance in making fair and righteous decisions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses is the leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egyptian bondage and guide them through the wilderness.

2. Jethro
Moses' father-in-law, a Midianite priest, who visits Moses and offers him wise counsel on leadership and governance.

3. Israelites
The people of God, recently delivered from Egypt, who are journeying through the wilderness under Moses' leadership.

4. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites are encamped, a place of testing and reliance on God's provision.

5. God
The ultimate authority and source of wisdom, who is invoked by Jethro in his counsel to Moses.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Wise Counsel
Jethro's advice to Moses highlights the value of seeking and heeding wise counsel from others, especially those who fear God and have experience.

Delegation and Shared Leadership
Moses learns the necessity of delegating responsibilities to capable leaders, which is crucial for effective governance and preventing burnout.

Intercessory Role of Leaders
Moses is reminded of his role as an intercessor, representing the people before God, which underscores the spiritual responsibility of leaders.

God's Presence in Decision-Making
Jethro's blessing, "God be with you," emphasizes the need for divine guidance in leadership decisions.

Sustainable Leadership Practices
Implementing a system of shared leadership ensures sustainability and efficiency in managing the community's needs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jethro's advice to Moses reflect the biblical principle of seeking wise counsel, and how can we apply this in our own decision-making processes?

2. In what ways does the delegation of responsibilities, as seen in Exodus 18:19, parallel the structure of leadership in the early church in Acts 6:1-7?

3. How can leaders today balance their role as representatives before God and their practical responsibilities to those they lead?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that God's presence and guidance are central in our leadership and decision-making processes?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to delegate tasks or responsibilities. How did this experience align with the principles found in Exodus 18:19, and what did you learn from it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 1:9-18
This passage recounts Moses' implementation of Jethro's advice, establishing a system of judges to help govern the people.

Acts 6:1-7
The early church faces a similar challenge of leadership and delegation, leading to the appointment of deacons to assist the apostles.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.