READING Exodus 17:1-7
MEDITATION
Leaders sometimes receive sharp criticism from the people they serve. Exodus 17:2 says, “The people quarreled with Moses.” “Quarreled” denotes strong opposition and verbal attacks. It is even defined as “verbal combat” (Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, p 845).
Verbal assaults on leaders often arise out of people’s needs or perceived needs. The need may be legitimate, like water in this case, or the complaints may be driven by selfish desire.
There is certainly a time to express concern to leaders. But the manner in which people do it is important. In this case, it is evident the Israelites were not trusting God. They blamed Moses for leading them to a barren place rather than believing that the God who delivered them from the Egyptians by parting the Red Sea could also provide them with water to drink.
Moses responded by turning to God. People’s harsh demands push leaders to rely on God for help. The word “cried” in verse 4 means to call out for help in great distress. Spiritual leaders do this often!
The Expositor’s Bible Commentary observes, “One of Moses’ most characteristic and praiseworthy traits was that he took his difficulties to the Lord (Exodus 15:25; 32:30; 33:12-16; Numbers 11:2; 12:13; 14:13-19.)”
His request here included an element of self-preservation. “What shall I do with this people? They are almost ready to stone me” (v 4). Now I would be concerned for my safety too. *But we do have to be careful of being overly concerned with how people’s verbal attacks affect us. It’s easy for leaders to take it personally when they feel the sting of people’s displeasure. It helps to realize people don’t necessarily feel personal animosity toward us. We are the objects of their intensity, but ultimately they need to develop trust in God and graciousness when communicating with others.
PRAYER
Father, I tend to take people’s complaints and objections personally. Please help me keep in mind that they may have a good point to make. If they’re communicating in a sinful way or if their words arise from a selfish heart, help them to grow.
Then there are those who are just harsh. You know who they are. Help me respond as graciously as possible. Give me wisdom to address sin when needed. Vindicate my leadership if you wish. Ultimately I entrust myself, my ministry, and these people to you.
*My interview with Scott Owen includes helpful insights on responding to criticism.
Dean H. Taylor 
Well Dean you actually hit the nail on the head pretty squarely here. This applies to leaders in the church as well as our nations leaders. This morning I watched a Fox News briefing from yesterday the March 30th. This was a reverse roll I didn’t expect to see. This man’s “My Pillow Company” are now make medical masks, medical ppe gowns and much more. As he gave his closing remarks he said the Mr President Trump I have something off the cuff I must state. I would like for you to listen for just 60 seconds and his little clip begins at 18:20 on the clip. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK1s9LlJJoo Long story short he gave praises to God for putting in place a leader as Mr President Trump beginning back on 16 Nov 2016. For God knew this was coming and that all of the nation while sheltered in their homes should seek out God and find themselves with him and pray for our nation. Needless to say I cried for this joy that this man was proclaiming that indeed God can and will help our nation if we seek him out. How amazing was that! Then on the other side of the fence Jim Accosta from CNN just trashed Mr President Trump with ridiculous questions that lent no support to help our nation. So Dean I see exactly what what Moses was having to deal with as well. A great read today.