Exodus 18:1-27

18:1-27 | The respect and mutual regard seen in the reunion of Jethro and Moses demonstrates family dynamics in the ancient Near East in the Late Bronze Age. Moses constantly deferred to Jethro as his father-in-law, even though he had been released from familial duties.

18:17-18 | Jethro identified two problems. First, judging Israel by himself – with no help from the nation’s elders in such day-to-day affairs – was causing Moses great fatigue. Second, the people were frustrated because they could not get prompt relief.

18:19-26 | Leaders who delegate properly not only are able to endure and continue their work far longer, but they bring peace to their people. By selecting men of ability (able). Spirituality (such as fear God), honesty (truth), and integrity (hating covetousness) to help judge the people (Deut. 1:9-18), Moses could reestablish his own priorities: praying (bring the difficulties to God), teaching (the statutes and the laws), and leading (show them the way they must walk and work) (Acts 6:2-4).