“Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God: Exodus 18:19 (KJV)”
This verse is part of a conversation between Moses and his father-in-law, Jethro. In this dialogue, Jethro observes Moses’ role as the sole judge and decision-maker for the Israelites, and he offers him counsel on how to delegate some of his responsibilities in order to better serve the people.
Let’s explore the context and the key themes in Exodus 18:19:
- The Need for Wise Counsel:Prior to this verse, Jethro notices how Moses spends his entire day judging disputes and settling matters among the people. Recognising that this is an overwhelming task for one person, Jethro advises Moses to listen to his counsel. Jethro suggests that Moses should seek assistance and delegate certain responsibilities to capable individuals. This emphasises the importance of seeking wise counsel and not shouldering all burdens alone.
- God’s Presence and Guidance:Jethro tells Moses that if he hearkens to his voice and follows his counsel, God will be with him. The underlying message is that God’s presence and guidance are essential in making wise decisions and leading God’s people. Moses is reminded to rely on God’s wisdom and direction as he considers Jethro’s advice.
- Being a Representative for the People:Jethro encourages Moses to be a mediator between the people and God. Moses should bring their causes and concerns before God, acting as a liaison between the Israelites and the divine. This role highlights the importance of intercession and the responsibility of leaders to advocate for their communities before God.
The broader context of this verse reveals that Moses takes Jethro’s advice to heart and appoints capable individuals to help judge and settle disputes among the people. By doing so, Moses lightens his own burden and ensures that justice is administered fairly.
Overall, Exodus 18:19 teaches us about the significance of seeking wise counsel, relying on God’s presence and guidance, and taking up the responsibility of representing the concerns of others before God. It serves as a valuable lesson for leaders and individuals in positions of authority to delegate tasks, seek advice, and prioritise God’s guidance in their decision-making processes.
