Women & Faith: Don’t wear yourself out – delegate!
BOTH men and women in various industries throughout the private and public sectors are called to lead large groups of people and we each rightfully takes that role seriously. If you give everyone unrestricted access to you, you stand the risk of being burnt out, which is why you must delegate. Jethro’s advice in the book of Exodus chapter 18 is apt for those leading large groups of people in any sphere of life.
At this point in the scripture, the people of Israel were delivered from slavery and were encamped in the wilderness. As with any community of people, matters will arise which require wisdom, guidance and judgement. Moses played that role ‘from morning till evening’ (Exodus 18 vs 13). Jethro, his father-in-law saw what he was doing, was concerned and provided advice.
First, he provided insight and a warning that what he was doing was not good and would result in burnout — 17. Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good. 18. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone.”
Secondly Jethro gave him practical advice. He told him to continue to represent the people’s concerns to God and teach them God’s ways. 19. “You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God, 20. and you shall warn them about the statutes and the laws and make them know the way in which they must walk and what they must do.”
Thirdly, he told Moses to delegate and provided a job description for those who would become ‘middle managers’ and ‘supervisors.’ They should be competent, trustworthy, god-fearing and full of integrity (hate a bribe).
- Look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. 22. And let them judge the people at all times.
Finally, Jethro explained the outcome if Moses took his advice – Moses would endure, and the people would be at peace.
Every great matter they shall bring to you, but any small matter they shall decide themselves. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you. 23. If you do this, God will direct you, you will be able to endure, and all his people also will go to their place in peace.”
Thankfully, Moses wisely took Jethro’s advice. He didn’t snub his words of wisdom thinking that only he can adjudicate on all matters. The truth is that leaders need guidance too, especially when comes to the administration of their lives and time.
Women leaders in particular must be wise in the administration of their affairs, especially if they are also wives and mothers who typically bear the larger burden of managing the home and parenting responsibilities. There is so much to learn, glean and adopt from Jethro but the main message we can takeaway is: don’t wear yourself out, delegate!
Shelly-Ann Mair-Harris is a women’s rights advocate, corporate professional, communication strategist, woman of faith and author of several titles including The Goodies on her Tray and God’s Woman.
