Exodus 18:15

And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:

Exodus 18:15 (KJV)

Context

After Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, Moses’ father-in-law Jethro visited him in the wilderness. Jethro saw Moses judging the people from morning to evening and asked why he did this alone. Moses answered that the people came to him to enquire of God. The surrounding account shows Jethro warning that this burden was too heavy and advising Moses to share the work (Exodus 18:17-18). This counsel led to the appointment of capable helpers, a practical step that preserved Moses’ strength and served the community well.

Meaning

Moses’ reply reveals his role as mediator between God and Israel. The people did not come for mere human opinion; they sought God’s will. The Hebrew word for “enquire” carries the sense of seeking guidance or a decision from God. Moses stood between God and the people, receiving divine direction and passing it on. This was a sacred duty, but it placed enormous strain on one man. The people’s inquiry reflected a deep desire to know God’s mind in specific cases, as well as His statutes and laws.

Biblical connections

The pattern of a mediator continues in Scripture. In the New Testament, Jesus is called the mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). While Moses represented God to Israel, Jesus perfectly reveals God’s will and opens the way for all believers to approach Him directly. This connection shows that God has always provided a way for His people to know His mind. Seeking God is central to community life, and leadership involves facilitating others’ access to God’s wisdom.

Application

Leaders today can learn from Moses’ example. No leader, however capable, should carry every burden alone. Delegation is not weakness but wisdom. By appointing capable helpers for smaller matters, leaders can focus on important decisions and avoid burnout. This also empowers others to grow in their gifts. The value of wise counsel and sustainable structures for ministry is clear from Jethro’s advice.

Seeking God’s guidance is essential for all believers, not only leaders. The people’s inquiry shows a healthy desire to know God’s will in daily matters. We can seek God through prayer, reading Scripture, and listening to wise counsel. God promises to give wisdom to those who ask (James 1:5). Depending on our own understanding misses the peace that comes from trusting His direction. God’s will is discerned through appointed means, and He remains accessible to all who call on Him.

Reflection

Moses’ words remind us that God is accessible and willing to guide His people. The people came to Moses because they knew God spoke through him. Today, through Christ, every believer has direct access to God’s throne of grace. We are invited to bring our questions, decisions, and burdens to Him. As we do, we learn to lead with humility and share responsibilities, trusting that God’s wisdom is sufficient for every need.