The Dangers of BEING Everyone

You know who they are. Perhaps one exists in your organization. Could you be one? Which one do I mean? The person who needs to do everything or, in their own mind, nothing will get done – the way they want. There are clear dangers waiting for those who travel down this road.

Moses was such a person. Yahveh had appointed him leader of His people – he felt the burden so severe, he knew everything had to be done well. He knew he had to do it all himself. We encounter this in Exodus 18:17,18, when Yethro, Moses’ father-in-law, sees how he is dealing with each and every issue which erupts between and among people: What you are doing isn’t good.  You will certainly wear yourself out — and not only yourself, but these people here with you as well. It’s too much for you — you can’t do it alone, by yourself.

Yethro’s words to Moshe are quite insightful. Those in leadership positions, who try to do everything themselves, without delegation, do not last long in their positions. They either burn-out or are forced out by those more senior in the hierarchy. Unfortunately, many autocratic leaders of organizations and, sometimes fellowships, impose such strict rules and guidelines, they tend to stifle growth and become legalistic in their governance and practice, rather than promoting the freedom and fellowship desired by their members.

Often, though, they cannot see this occurring within their leadership style; they see the task ahead, knowing Yahveh has appointed them, and perceive they are the ones who need to do the job. But is that Yahveh’s way? Is this what the Ruler of the universe meant, as Moses recounted to Yethro – It’s because the people come to me seeking God’s guidance.  Whenever they have a dispute, it comes to me; I judge between one person and another, and I explain to them God’s laws and teachings. (Exodus 18:15,16) It appears every task before Moses is one requiring the utmost attention and focus only he may provide. But is this the case?

Listen to Yethro’s advice to Moses and determine if this has any relevance to you, today – But you should choose from among all the people competent men who are God-fearing, honest and incorruptible to be their leaders, in charge of thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.  Normally, they will settle the people’s disputes. They should bring you the difficult cases; but ordinary matters they should decide themselves. (Deuteronomy 18:21-22) If you are in a situation, in which you are accountable for many people, are you shouldered with the mentoring responsibility for them all? Is it you who decides who will be responsible for each task and is it you who will decide if that task has been completed satisfactorily? Perhaps another question may be posed: should it be you?

As a leader, you have many responsibilities, such as Moses did, which occupy much of your time, responsibilities which may only be yours, as you are the one who makes the final decision. Are there others in your unit who are able to take on management issues, related to the work they do?

CONSIDER: Have you taken on a workload, which is excessive in its scope? Is your energy or strength failing and you’re worried neither will last?

ACTION: Perhaps you might make a list of all you are doing. Are you able to put aside some of your income to support the efforts of others? How long will your strength last, at its current rate of expenditure? Doesn’t it make sense to share the load with others? Learn to acknowledge that His plans are better than yours. In fact, they are perfect for you. By leaning on Him, He will reveal/unveil the necessary steps to take and perfectly has crafted opportunities as you pray. Ask Him.

PRAY: Abba B’Shamayim, Beloved Yahveh. I cling to you, yet my energy is failing and my strength fades. Help me, please, to understand the need to share my load with others, who are probably better able to handle it than am I.  In Your Precious Name I pray.