“Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.”
This verse is part of a larger narrative in the book of Exodus that describes the events after the Israelites had escaped from Egypt and were journeying through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. In this particular passage, Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, visits him and observes how Moses was spending his days settling disputes and judging the people.
Jethro, recognizing the burden placed upon Moses by single-handedly dealing with the disputes of such a vast multitude, advises him that this way of leadership is not sustainable. He tells Moses that he will “surely wear away” or exhaust himself, as well as the people he is trying to lead. Jethro acknowledges that the task Moses has taken upon himself is too heavy, and he encourages Moses to seek assistance in order to effectively govern the people.
This verse highlights several important lessons that we can glean from the narrative:
- The importance of delegation: Jethro’s counsel teaches us that leaders should not attempt to bear the entire burden of responsibility alone. Delegation allows for shared leadership and helps prevent burnout. Moses, though chosen by God, needed to recognize the value of distributing some of the responsibilities to capable individuals.
- The recognition of limitations: Moses’ leadership had become overwhelming, and Jethro wisely pointed out that he was not able to perform all the tasks by himself. It reminds us that it is essential to recognize our limitations and seek assistance or advice when necessary. No one person possesses all the skills, wisdom, or energy required to fulfill every role perfectly.
- The importance of community: Jethro’s words highlight the significance of community and collective responsibility. Moses was leading a nation, and he needed a system in place that involved others, allowing them to contribute their skills and wisdom. By sharing the burden, not only would the work be more manageable, but it would also foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among the people.
In the broader context of the biblical narrative, this passage serves as a practical lesson in leadership, emphasizing the importance of wise delegation and communal responsibility. It encourages leaders to recognize their limitations and seek support from capable individuals, ensuring the smooth functioning and well-being of the community they serve.
