Commentators highlight Gedaliah's exemplary leadership. He positions himself at Mizpah to handle the dangerous and difficult task of dealing with the Chaldeans, effectively "standing before them" as an advocate and buffer. As John Calvin notes, Gedaliah acts like a hen gathering her chicks, using his authority not for personal gain but to protect the remnant and allow them to rebuild their lives in peace. He puts himself at risk for the good of his people.