Ok ... I got this ... I think?

Often, as leaders we may feel the need to prove our worth by being the “point man/woman” on every issue. "I got this" we say. Do we? I often wondered how great leaders do what they do seemingly by themselves. Then I discovered that they don’t. They get help!  Here’s my CLUE for the week:

            When Moses is considered in the area of administration, it is difficult to discuss him without a mention and elaboration on his father-in-law Jethro. There was a time during Moses’ leadership when he was overworked, over-tasked, and generally “in over his head”. We find this story in the book of Exodus 18:13-27. Moses had taken on the awesome responsibility of settling the disputes and other problems of the entire nation of Israel there in the wilderness.  Moses sat literally from morning to evening doing this. He felt that he alone was capable of such a monumental task. This guy had a serious “Superman Complex”! LOL. How many times is this the case in our churches, businesses, and even in the home (Superwoman – ladies!) His father-in-law came to visit and could not believe his eyes! Yes, in-laws are a great asset in financial and home planning because in most cases they have been where you are … just a CLUE! J

            Jethro inquired as to what he was doing and why other people were sitting around not being utilized. When Moses explained what he was doing, Jethro immediately gave his son-in-law some very valuable administrative advice. “The Old Man” stated that what Moses was doing was not good for the people or good for Moses. Essentially what he told him could easily be called “Principles of Administration 101”.  He shared with the basics of good administration and delegation. Moses was to train capable men for the work and allow them to make meager decisions and bring the difficult ones to him. He was to choose men with certain qualifications and train them to be effective in their roles. This is a foundational component of administration. No man can and should do it all. I mean, why would you want to!?

            Upon listening to his father-in-law Moses became a much better leader. This proves that leadership and administration principles can be taught. Kenneth O. Gangel says although “Moses was skilled in all the learning of the Egyptians, and he was trained for politics and war, the task of supervising the massive movement of people seemed beyond his managerial competence.” To lead and administrate over any number of people (Moses lead over a million) you must be adept in administration. Despite his lack of stellar performance during on this occasion, Moses stands tall in the annals of leadership, management, and administration as a positive role model.

Now you have the CLUE!

(I dedicate this article to fellow gospel preacher who was recently called from his labor to rest to await his heavenly reward – Evangelist Donald J. Bennett, a great leader called too soon!)