Exodus 18 – A Lesson in Leadership and Growth
Powerful moves of God are often followed by moments of great learning. Exodus 18 provides a rich example of how divine wisdom shapes leadership, community, and personal growth.
The Burden of Doing Too Much
Exodus 18:17 – “The thing you do is not good.”
Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, observed that Moses was trying to do everything himself, and he wisely pointed out that this approach was not sustainable.
- The work was too heavy; Moses was taking on too much.
- This approach would lead to burnout, not just for Moses but for the people as well.
- Lesson: “Men called by God to lead are always in danger of attempting to encompass more than they are able.”
- Solution: Involving others does not wear them down—it strengthens both the servant and the one being served.
Listening Before Leading
Exodus 18:19 – “If you want others to listen to what you have to say, you must listen first.”
- Wise leadership involves receiving advice before giving instruction.
- Being teachable positions you to teach effectively.
- Lesson: Strong leaders are first strong listeners.
Seeking God’s Will in Every Decision
Exodus 18:23 – “People will offer advice; listen to them, but check it with God’s revealed will and word.”
- Counsel from others is valuable, but it must align with God’s truth.
- Strength and satisfaction in leadership come from seeking divine guidance.
- Lesson: Wisdom is found in godly discernment.
The Untapped Potential in Community
Every community holds a wealth of latent talent waiting to be awakened.
The Law of Church Growth
A thriving church must:
- Envision what could happen when others engage in the mission.
- Evoke the God-given talents within them.
- Equip them for their high and holy calling.
- Empower them to fulfill their purpose.
A church that embraces this process becomes a dynamic, multiplying community that impacts the world for Christ. However, the law of church growth must first be personally applied before it can be enacted in the larger body.
The Power of God Working Through Your Life
Your Witness
- Will make deliverance known to others (Exodus 18:1)
- Living in your freedom and sharing your testimony helps others experience freedom.
- Will cause others to praise God (Exodus 18:9)
- Praise is contagious—it leads to life, while complaining leads to death.
- Will bring others to faith (Exodus 18:11)
- The ultimate goal: living out your faith so others see who God truly is.
- Psalm 18:3 – “I called to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I was saved from my enemies.”
Your Learning
- Will challenge you (Exodus 18:17)
- If you’re not being challenged, are you really learning? If you’re not learning, are you growing?
- Will better you (Exodus 18:19)
- God’s presence strengthens you.
- Will position you to teach (Exodus 18:20)
- When you listen and learn, you can guide others effectively.
- Will bring out the best in others (Exodus 18:20)
- Teaching God’s ordinances and laws helps others walk in His ways.
Employing Godly Directives
- Will awaken the abilities of others (Exodus 18:21)
- People will step into their God-given potential.
- They will walk in the fear of God and live honorably.
- Will create strength and satisfaction (Exodus 18:23)
- You will endure, and others will find peace.
Personal Growth Markers (Exodus 18:21)
- Becoming capable of doing
- Are you using your spiritual gifts?
- Do you know what they are?
- Fearing God
- Are you living a life that honors Him?
- Does He receive the glory in your life?
- Being trustworthy
- Are you a person of integrity?
Conclusion
Exodus 18 teaches us that leadership, growth, and godly wisdom are deeply intertwined. God’s power works through those who listen, learn, and lead by example. As you seek His will, involve others, and apply godly principles, you will find strength, satisfaction, and a thriving community of faith.
May we all embrace the lessons from the “between”—the spaces between powerful moves of God where we learn, grow, and lead in His strength.
Pastor Jason Lane 