MODEL OF IMPACTFUL LEADERSHIP (5)

“And he said, MY PRESENCE shall go with you, and I will give you REST” – Exodus 33:14

Moses’ MODEL of IMPACTFUL LEADERSHIP utterly depended on God’s Presence and Glory: “And he said, MY PRESENCE shall go with you, and I will give you REST” (Exo.33:14). After the people's sin with the golden calf as recorded in the preceding chapter, Moses showed humility by seeking God's forgiveness and pleading for His Presence to remain with the Israelites (vv.12-16). His leadership exemplified humility, intercession, and a close relationship with God. His intercession demonstrated a caring leadership as he advocated for the people's well-being and God's faithfulness. This account in chapter 33 reveals God's graciousness and the intimate connection Moses had with Him, as God revealed His glory and blessed His servant.

After the Israelites' sin of worshipping the golden calf, Moses, though grieved, didn’t reject them or cast them aside. Instead, he humbly interceded, pleaded with God to forgive their sin and to continue His Presence among them, a strong example of leadership that prioritized the well-being of the people and seeking reconciliation with God. Leadership is not merely about exercising authority or wielding power, but about caring for, discipling, and nurturing people to fulfil the Will of God.

Moses valued God’s Presence above any human skill. Of course, God was willing to forgive and remain with His people, if they were willing to repent and seek His guidance. Godly leaders seek His Wisdom and Presence in life and leadership, as the sources of effectiveness and true success. Moses' encounter with God showed a deep, personal relationship. He spoke with God face to face, and was allowed to see God’s Glory, though not His face (vv.19-23). This intimate connection serves as a model for leaders to seek a relationship with God, that empowers them to lead effectively and be a blessing. 

Moses' model portrays leadership as a Service – sincere service – to the people and to God. He was concerned for their needs, pleaded for their forgiveness, and sought God's guidance, all of these being qualities of a servant-leader. His model of impactful leadership highlights God's Grace and Mercy, signifying that even after sin, God was willing to forgive and sustain His Presence. This reminds us to also be forgiving and merciful, seeking to restore and uplift those around us.

Moses also led by example, demonstrating how to approach, pursue, and press into God’s Presence with humility and faith; and how to seek His guidance, even in the face of personal and collective challenges – a leadership that never gives up! God responded to his intercession, promising to be present with the people and revealing His Glory to Moses. This passage highlights God’s faithfulness and His desire to be intimately connected with His people, even in their imperfections!