Ancient Lessons for Modern Leaders

“Moses spent forty years thinking he was somebody; forty years learning he was nobody; and forty years discovering what God can do with a nobody.”

— D.L. Moody

We’re coming up to the start of Passover at the end of April. Despite growing up with the story of Passover practically ingrained in me, it's funny how certain aspects hit differently each year. ?Maybe it’s a sign of the times, but this year, the lesson of humility that's really struck a chord.

I've always known that Moses wasn’t ‘perfect’.? He had a speech impediment, he was deeply insecure, and he wasn't exactly jumping at the chance to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. But still, I always imagined him raised as a Prince, despite his humble beginnings.? I envisioned that upbringing imprinting a certain level of gravitas, as people so close to the sun always seem to have. But it's only now that I really see it was the reverse.? How he questioned his ability and how very crucial that humility was in leading a very traumatized group, seemingly aimlessly, across the dessert toward freedom.? In fact, we don't learn about a highly confident, 'unshakable leader'. Moses was absolutely SHOOK throughout the entire ordeal and he didn't hide it. So how did this uncertain, self-doubting human turn into one of the most talked about leaders of all time? I argue that in fact, it was the characteristics most people view as weak leadership that helped Moses lead a group through the desert to salvation.? It was his humility.

Here’s where we see clear examples of humility in his great leadership:

1. Acceptance of his limitations: When called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses initially hesitated, expressing concerns about his own inadequacy and lack of eloquence (Exodus 3:11, Exodus 4:10).

2. Recognition of his dependence: Throughout the Exodus story, Moses consistently acknowledges his reliance on God's strength and guidance. He attributes his actions and accomplishments to God's power rather than his own abilities (Exodus 14:13-14, Exodus 15:2).?

3. Intervening for the people: Despite the Israelites' repeated disobedience and complaints, Moses consistently sticks out his own neck to intercede on their behalf (Exodus 32:11-14, Numbers 14:13-19). He demonstrates compassion and humility by standing in solidarity with his people, despite their flaws.

4. Receptivity to feedback: Moses is open to receiving counsel and feedback from others, including his father-in-law Jethro (Exodus 18:13-26). ?Despite that Jethro was an ‘outsider’, Moses still took advice from him and appointed empowered leaders in the community In fact Jethro’s legacy lives on in our core principles of democracy. ?Moses humbly listens to Jethro's advice regarding leadership and delegation, recognizing the value of wise counsel. The best businesses still empower other leaders in this way!

5. Willingness to accept responsibility: When faced with challenges or failures, Moses takes responsibility for his actions and seeks reconciliation. For example, after striking the rock in anger instead of speaking to it as God commanded, Moses accepts the consequences of his disobedience (Numbers 20:2-13).

These are just a few examples. Think about it: In times of plenty, we often look up to leaders who ooze confidence and certainty. And sure, that's important. But in uncertain times, as we now seem to find ourselves in? It's humility that shines through.

That's where the lesson of Passover and Moses as a leader comes in. His willingness to question himself, to grapple with his beliefs, and to lead with humility—especially when things looked bleak—showed true strength.

This article was written with the support of GenAI