One Hit Wonder, or Lasting Legacy? #3

So far, in our little observation of Shamgars life, we have learnt that we need to add Character, Competence and Coaches to our raw passion and gift. It’s not enough to rely on juvenile talent – we must progress and grow in God to fulfil a divine destiny.

The final ingredient to a lasting legacy is…

Connection … with God.

It is interesting to follow the stories of many leaders through the Bible. Most were called, brave, skilled, popular – but the most powerful and successful were always those who had a deep, divine friendship with God. They were called in an encounter with God, lived from the power of that encounter and walked through life hearing God’s voice and seeking his guidance.

“The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.” Exodus 33:11

I love the fact that Moses left the “Tent of Meeting”, but Joshua got to remain there. I believe it was here, in the afterglow of Moses encountering God’s glory, that Joshua too kindled a friendship with God that enabled him to lead Israel into perhaps her most pivotal season of destiny. Moses had coached Joshua in his most vital discipline, how to be a friend of God.

And so, the sense of “As I was with Moses, so shall I be with you” (Joshua 1:5) framed Joshua’s leadership, and gave him unwavering strength and wisdom throughout his days.

Have you had your season in the “Tent of Meeting”? Those times when it is easier to pray than not to pray? Those nights of prayer, those long walks, those sabbatical encounters, those longings that call heaven to earth? If not, start now. Call out to Him, that you would walk as a “Friend of God” all the days of your life. Nothing could make your life more meaningful.

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To recap…If you want long term influence, and to not be a one-hit wonder:

Take the lessons of character on the chin. They normally come in the form of set backs, conflict and failure. This is your foundation.

Grow your competence by enlisting coaches, fathers, mothers, books, classes and studies. This fills your toolbox so you can get things done.

Deepen your connection with God. Never let ministry or busyness crowd out his still small voice or His Fatherly care. It is more vital to your future than you can possibly know. This is the very reason God made you!

Build a Stronger life, with the Stronger Online Course. If you have a desire to develop strength for your life – to protect your marriage or enjoy singleness, to fulfil your vision or grow your career, to enjoy a long life and keep your integrity, then this course is just for you!

So what’s in the course?

• Downloadable chapters of Jarrod’s book “Stronger”
• Over 15 hours of downloadable audio and video teaching from Jarrod Cooper
• Journalling
• Group discussions