Moses was reflecting on their
journey and conveying that to the people of Israel before they
could enter the land. All of the Israelites (except for Caleb and
Joshua) were younger than 20 years of age when they left Egypt,
therefore most of the events that Moses were conveying to them, was
unknown to most of them because they were too young to
remember.
Now one of the events Moses was
reminding them about was the time when he needed help, he couldn't
bear the burden of the whole nation by himself:
"At that time I told you, You are
too great a burden for me to carry all by myself. The Lord your God
has made you as numerous as the stars. And may the Lord the God of
your ancestors, multiply you a thousand times more and bless you as
He promised! But how can I settle all your quarrels, and problems
by myself? Choose some men from each tribe who have wisdom,
understanding and a good reputation, and I will appoint them as
your leaders." Deuteronomy 1:9-13
Moses humbled himself and admitted
that he needed help. It is quite a humbling experience for a leader
of his stature to admit it, but he did and God blessed him because
of it. Several leaders were chosen to help him and God also led
them with His Spirit to make wise decisions.
Plus notice another thing, when he
ordered them to choose leaders they didn't choose the most
intelligent, or the people with charismatic personalities or the
most handsome of them all. They chose those with wisdom,
understanding and a good reputation.
The first lesson for me here is
that great leaders admit it when they need help. They choose
leaders to help them in their mission. They don't pretend that they
are strong and can handle everything that comes their way, no, they
admit that they cannot do everything and they delegate the tasks
necessary. And on the flip side, those helping the leader are
equally important and God is pleased with them as they continue to
support him and his mission. God has a specific task for all and He
will reward those that do their task with diligence and a
submissive attitude towards God.
And the second lesson is that a
good reputation, wisdom and understanding are more important than
qualifications, good looks, riches and fame. We need to look at
people from a Godly perspective and not a worldly view. God sees
jewels in people that we would walk past. Therefore we need to
pause now and again and put on our heavenly spectacles and see
through God's eyes.
In all walks of life we need
leaders and we need supportive followers. Both are equally
important. Ask God to show you where you fit in and do your best in
the position you are placed in. Then do your work with wisdom and
understanding and earn a good reputation as someone who has a heart
to follow God's ways.
Thank you God that I have a place
in this world. Thank you that You have decided what it is from the
foundation of the world. Please give me peace concerning my
position and help me to do the best that I can. In Jesus Name.
Amen