Choose Capable People

[Moses] chose capable men from all over Israel and appointed them as leaders over the people. . . . These men were always available to solve the people’s common disputes. Exodus 18:25-26

Moses was overwhelmed. He was the arbitrator for the entire population, and the task was consuming more time than he had available.

At the suggestion of his wife’s father, Moses appointed men from each of the twelve tribes as regional managers for the organization. They provided the starting place for all decisions, and if there was something they couldn’t handle, they brought it to Moses.

Leaders must set priorities for their own time. Those who don’t often fall prey to well-intentioned subordinates who believe the boss wants to hear every little concern.

Do you really need to decide which coffeemaker to buy? Or whether the company should serve chicken or beef at the next annual picnic?

You have only a certain amount of time to do everything you’re supposed to do. Don’t waste it by making decisions that should be handled by your managers.