Exodus 18:15

"When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he did to the people, he said, “What is this thing that you do for the people? Why do you sit alone, and all the people stand around you from morning to evening?”"

Key Reflection

When Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, observed the daily routine of the Israelites and their leader, he was struck by the immense burden Moses carried alone, with all the people waiting on him from morning until evening. In first-century Israelite culture, a judge or leader typically had assistants to help manage the court proceedings, but Jethro recognized that this system was unsustainable for Moses' well-being and the efficiency of justice for the people. His question was not only about Moses’ workload but also hinted at a more sustainable leadership model.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

To enquire of God -The decisions of Moses were doubtless accepted by the people as oracles. The internal prompting of the Spirit was a sufficient guidance for him, and a sufficient authority for the people.

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