This is Part 4 of the series Servant Leadership Examples from the Bible.
Leadership often demands stepping into roles we never imagined for ourselves, facing challenges that seem insurmountable, and guiding others through tumultuous times. Few leaders exemplify these experiences as profoundly as Moses. A reluctant leader by any measure, Moses initially resisted his calling, feeling unworthy and unprepared. Yet, through his journey, Moses emerged as one of the most significant leaders in history, guiding the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. His story offers timeless lessons for today’s business leaders, especially those navigating significant challenges.
Moses’ leadership was marked by compassion, dedication, and perseverance—qualities that are essential for any leader striving to inspire and guide their teams effectively.
Leadership Journey
Moses’ leadership journey began with an encounter that would change the course of his life—and history. At the burning bush, God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt Exodus 3:1-10. Moses, however, was hesitant. He doubted his abilities, questioned his worthiness, and even asked God to send someone else (Exodus 4:13). This reluctance is something many leaders can relate to, especially when faced with daunting challenges or significant responsibilities.
Despite his initial hesitation, Moses accepted the call, and what followed was a leadership journey fraught with challenges. He faced opposition from Pharaoh, skepticism from the Israelites, and the immense burden of leading a nation through the wilderness. Yet, through it all, Moses remained dedicated to his mission and his people. He led the Israelites through the Red Sea, provided for them in the desert, and guided them with unwavering commitment towards the Promised Land. His leadership is a powerful example for business leaders who must navigate periods of significant change or crisis. Just as Moses led the Israelites through a time of transition and uncertainty, so too must business leaders guide their organizations through challenging periods, often requiring the same level of dedication and perseverance.
Key Traits
Moses’ leadership was characterized by several key traits that are essential for effective leadership in any context, particularly in the business world.
Compassion: One of the most striking aspects of Moses’ leadership was his deep compassion for his people. This is perhaps most evident in Exodus 32:11-14, where Moses intercedes for the Israelites after they sin by worshiping the golden calf. Despite their disobedience, Moses pleads with God to spare them, demonstrating his profound care for their well-being.
Compassion is a crucial trait for business leaders, particularly when managing teams. Leaders who show genuine concern for their employees foster a sense of loyalty and trust, which in turn enhances team cohesion and performance. Compassionate leadership involves understanding the challenges your team faces, providing support when needed, and making decisions that prioritize the well-being of others.
Dedication: Moses’ dedication to his mission and to God was unwavering, even in the face of immense challenges. He remained committed to leading the Israelites to the Promised Land, despite their frequent complaints and rebellion. This level of dedication is essential for business leaders, especially when leading teams through difficult times.
Dedication to a higher purpose—whether it’s the company’s mission, the welfare of employees, or the needs of customers—helps leaders stay focused and motivated, even when the road is tough. It also inspires the same level of commitment in others, creating a culture of perseverance and resilience.
Perseverance: Leading the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness was no small feat, and Moses faced numerous obstacles along the way. From Pharaoh’s refusal to let the Israelites go, to the logistical challenges of providing for a nation in the desert, Moses had to persevere through many difficulties. His perseverance is a model for business leaders who must manage crises, navigate uncertainty, and lead their teams through challenging periods.
Perseverance in leadership means staying the course, even when things are difficult, and finding ways to overcome obstacles with creativity and determination.
Challenges Faced
Moses’ leadership journey was not without its challenges, and the way he overcame them offers valuable lessons for today’s business leaders.
Opposition from Pharaoh: One of the first significant challenges Moses faced was convincing Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. Despite repeated requests and a series of devastating plagues, Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened Exodus 7-11. This opposition required Moses to be persistent and strategic, relying on God’s guidance to eventually secure the Israelites’ freedom.
In the business world, leaders often face opposition, whether from competitors, stakeholders, or even within their own organizations. Overcoming such challenges requires persistence, strategic thinking, and sometimes, a willingness to take bold actions.
Skepticism from the Israelites: Even after their miraculous escape from Egypt, the Israelites frequently doubted Moses’ leadership. They complained about the lack of food and water, questioned Moses’ decisions, and even expressed a desire to return to Egypt Exodus 16-17. Despite this, Moses remained patient and continued to lead with compassion and dedication.
Business leaders may encounter skepticism from their teams, particularly during times of change or uncertainty. Responding with patience, empathy, and clear communication can help to rebuild trust and guide the team forward.
The Burden of Leadership: Leading an entire nation through the wilderness was an immense responsibility, and at times, Moses felt the weight of it deeply. In Numbers 11:14, Moses expresses his frustration to God, saying, “I am not able to carry all this people alone; the burden is too heavy for me.” In response, God provided Moses with seventy elders to share the burden of leadership Numbers 11:16-17.
This is a critical lesson for business leaders: leadership can be overwhelming, and it’s important to delegate responsibilities and build a support system. By empowering others to take on leadership roles, leaders can lighten their load and ensure that the organization functions more effectively.
Business Application
Moses’ example offers several practical applications for modern business leaders, particularly in the areas of dedication, employee welfare, and long-term vision.
Dedication to a Higher Purpose: Just as Moses was dedicated to leading the Israelites to the Promised Land, business leaders should remain committed to their organization’s higher purpose. This could be the company’s mission, core values, or a long-term strategic vision. By keeping this purpose at the forefront, leaders can stay motivated and focused, even when facing challenges. This dedication also inspires employees, fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment across the organization.
Prioritizing Employee Welfare: Moses’ compassion for the Israelites is a powerful reminder of the importance of caring for those you lead. In the business world, this translates to prioritizing the welfare of employees. Leaders can do this by creating a supportive work environment, offering opportunities for professional development, and ensuring that employees have the resources they need to succeed. By showing genuine concern for their well-being, leaders can build a loyal and motivated team.
Long-Term Vision in Business Strategy: Moses’ leadership was guided by a clear vision—leading the Israelites to the Promised Land. Similarly, business leaders should develop and communicate a long-term vision for their organization. This vision should guide strategic decisions, ensuring that short-term actions align with long-term goals. A clear vision also helps to rally the team, giving them a sense of direction and purpose.
Managing Crises with Perseverance: Just as Moses persevered through the challenges of leading the Israelites out of Egypt, business leaders must navigate crises and uncertainty with resilience. This involves staying calm under pressure, being adaptable, and finding creative solutions to problems. Perseverance is essential for maintaining momentum during difficult times and for inspiring confidence in your team.
Delegating Responsibilities: Moses’ experience of sharing the burden of leadership with the seventy elders is a valuable lesson for business leaders. Delegating responsibilities not only lightens the leader’s load but also empowers others within the organization. By entrusting key tasks to capable team members, leaders can focus on strategic decision-making and ensure that the organization runs smoothly.
Conclusion
Moses’ leadership journey provides a rich source of inspiration and guidance for modern business leaders. His compassion, dedication, and perseverance are qualities that are essential for leading teams through challenging times. By applying these principles, leaders can create organizations that are not only successful but also compassionate, resilient, and purpose-driven. Just as Moses led the Israelites towards the Promised Land, business leaders are called to guide their teams towards a brighter future, grounded in a commitment to their people and their mission.
As you reflect on Moses’ example, consider how you can incorporate these traits into your own leadership practices, and how they can help you inspire and guide your team effectively.
References
- Holy Bible, Legacy Standard Bible.
- MacArthur, J. (2002). The Book on Leadership. Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
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This series was originally published on LinkedIn as part of the Wisdom & Wit Newsletter.
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Chris Reighley is a Colson Fellow and a leader grounded in faith, family, and mission. With a career spanning servant leadership, digital marketing, and servant leadership, he is driven by a passion for empowering others. He is pursuing an Executive Master’s at The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M and a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Redemption Seminary. Through Shoe Leather Gospel, Chris is dedicated to combating biblical illiteracy and mentoring future leaders.
