The Joshua Factor

Are you in some kind of major life or career transition?    The Israelites were and big time.  Joshua and Caleb had returned from a scouting trip to the Promised Land and reported to Moses and his management team, of the opportunity and lushness of the land.  Others on the scouting team reported only the obstacles, namely well fed armies waiting in the Land of Promise to battle the Israelites.  Joshua knew that God had promised His people (Deuteronomy 6) success if they followed His leading and direction.

I am surrounded by friends and clients in my life coaching business who are beset by upcoming decisions that will entail emotion, financial impact and risk.  The response by Joshua for action and his reliance on God gives us a model for dealing with transition.  The Joshua Factor.

Joshua, given leadership as Moses’s health failed, prepared to enter the Promised Land, and God exhorted him multiple times: “Be strong and courageous.”  Joshua chose to hold on to the promises that God had expressed and that would bring success.  Was the task of occupying going to be easy? No.  The land was to be earned with resolve, conflict and a faith walk that would survive all obstacles.  The Joshua Factor in making our transitions:

• Love God with all your heart, soul and strength; and others too
• Make a plan, with God’s help, and then move with strength and courage
• Expect obstacles and know that God will “never leave you nor forsake you.”
• Never give up: persist, persevere and pray

The older generation of Israelites were not allowed into the Land of Promise due to inaction, complaining and lack of faith in what God was doing.  Each of us, as we face transition, have a choice: God’s way or our way. I will continue to give my best shot to the Joshua Factor.

Have a great day.

Paul                    35th Anniversary verse # 21/35      Be Strong & Courageous  Joshua 1:6