“And ye answered me, and said, The thing which thou hast spoken is good for us to do.”
Deuteronomy 1:14 is part of Moses’ retelling of the events that occurred during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their liberation from Egypt. In this particular verse, Moses recounts how he delegated leadership responsibilities to the people by appointing wise and experienced individuals to assist him in judging and resolving disputes among the Israelites.
This verse highlights an important aspect of biblical leadership-seeking wise counsel. When the Israelites acknowledged the wisdom of Moses’ plan and responded by affirming that his proposal was good, they acknowledged the importance of following God’s guidance and the significance of unity among the people.
Here are a few key points that we can draw from this verse:
- Recognition of God’s Guidance: The Israelites acknowledged that Moses’ instructions came from God and recognised the goodness and wisdom behind what he was proposing. This demonstrates their willingness to trust in God’s guidance and follow His direction.
- Importance of Collaboration: By answering Moses and affirming the goodness of his proposal, the Israelites demonstrated their willingness to work together in unity. They recognised that collective decision-making and cooperation were vital for the well-being and success of the community.
- Wise Counsel and Leadership: Moses’ decision to appoint capable individuals to assist in the governance and judgment of the people indicates the importance of seeking wise counsel. Leaders should not bear the burden of responsibility alone but should surround themselves with individuals who possess wisdom, experience, and discernment.
Overall, Deuteronomy 1:14 emphasises the significance of seeking God’s guidance, unity among believers, and the value of wise counsel in leadership. It serves as a reminder that leaders should seek the input and perspectives of others, fostering a collaborative environment based on God’s principles.
