Strong And Courageous: Leadership Lessons From The Book Of JoshuaSmakprov

Have you ever watched the show “American Idol?” A criticism used by the judges was “pitchy” when someone was singing off-key. There’s nothing quite as painful as listening to a “pitchy” singer who can’t seem to stay in tune, like me.

I’d say that’s true for business as well. It can be painful to watch leaders try to lead if they are disconnected. If you’re out of tune with God, your team, market trends, or the latest technology, you’ll make some critical mistakes. Even more importantly, a Christian leader must stay in tune with the Lord. God clearly instructs Joshua in this.

Once, on a trip to Israel, I heard our pastor describe the Hebrew root for the word “meditate.” Part of the definition means to ruminate - to chew repeatedly like a cow chews the cud.

You see, a cow has four stomachs. In the process of eating, the cow will partially digest the food in one stomach, then spit it up and chew on it some more. The process repeats until the cow fully digests the food.

That description changed how I think about meditating on God’s Word day and night. We should constantly bring the words we read back to our minds and reflect throughout the day until we have fully digested them.

To help me remember, I sometimes put notes in my pocket or in my truck to help bring the Word back to my mind. According to Joshua, we have to consistently spend time studying the Word so God can speak to us. I aim to start at least five mornings a week that way. I would probably get completely off track if I didn’t.

When I start my day connecting with God, He gives me wisdom. At times, He will give specific direction regarding a situation or issue. Often, though, God trusts us as His delegates. He can trust that I will make decisions based on His Word and His character.

When I prayerfully submit my work to God, it always makes a significant difference. If you can stay connected with the Holy Spirit and His Word, then you will prosper and succeed in all you do.

Do you have a weekly rhythm of reading and meditating on God’s Word?