Leadership RevealedSample

Moses is considered a hero of the faith and a great leader of Israel. Leading the Israelites was emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausting. Though he made a few big mistakes, Chrisitans can still learn from Moses the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness, avoiding doubt, knowing our limits, and persevering through criticism. 

1. Remember God’s Faithfulness

Initially, Moses did not want to lead the Israelites, but God had other plans. He preserved Moses as his people’s deliverer. Once Moses successfully led his people through the Red Sea and out of Egypt, he immediately praised God. As leaders, it is important to not take underserved credit; instead, we must remember that God has provided us with the opportunities and skills we need to lead. 

2. Beware of Doubt

Unfortunately, Moses did not always trust God completely. Moses panicked when the people grew demanding. In Exodus 17, he disobeyed God, and this time, God was less patient and declared Moses would not be allowed to enter the Promised Land. Every leader has fears and doubts. Be careful not to let these fears cripple you. They should never prevent you from obeying God. 

3. Know your limits

Leaders must avoid taking more than they can handle. Moses often was humbled by his desperate need for God’s help in leading Israel. Moses took on himself the responsibility to act as a judge for all the tribes of Israel. In Exodus 18, Moses’ father-in-law points out that he could not do the job alone. Moses needed to rely upon others to help him. Good leaders know their limits and ask for help when they need it. 

4. Persevere through Criticism

Moses experienced tremendous criticism from both his followers and his own family. His story teaches us to adopt a four step response to criticism. First, be humble (Numbers 12:3). The Bible says Moses was meeker than all the people of the earth. Second, listen to those you trust ( Exodus 18:17-23). Just as Moses could trust his father-in-law, every leader needs someone they can trust. Third, ask God for help (Numbers 11). Moses repeatedly prayed for help when the people rebelled. Lastly, be decisive (Numbers 16). Korah’s rebellion illustrates how leaders must make painful and difficult decisions. 

Moses was not a perfect leader, but he was a leader from whom we should learn much. Our impact as leaders is dependent upon our willingness to remember God’s faithfulness. We must be cautious about doubting God and knowing our weaknesses, and in order to be successful, we must persevere through criticism. 

Reflection Questions:

What is an area of your life where God has shown his faithfulness?

Where are some areas where you struggle with doubting God in your life?

Do you take on more than you can handle? Who is someone you trust to ask for help in those areas?

Are you currently facing criticism? How can you persevere through it?