Find Courage or Face Consequences (Business Devo)

The Growtime Show

Reference:

Deuteronomy 1:19-36

Subtitle

When the Israelites were on the cusp of entering the Promised Land, fear and doubt crept in. Despite God's past faithfulness, they lacked the courage to step into their destiny. As we pursue ambitious goals, courage is required to obtain the impossible and receive the full reward.

Summary

In this episode, we examine the importance of courage by looking at the example of the Israelites right before entering the Promised Land. After years of slavery and then wandering in the wilderness, they finally arrived at the destination God had promised. But rather than having faith in God's provision, the people were filled with fear at the obstacles in their way. They lacked the courage to fight for what was theirs.

As leaders and entrepreneurs, we can relate. The door of opportunity opens before us, but we hesitate and allow doubt to creep in. However, Moses reminds the Israelites of God's past faithfulness - the miracles done in Egypt and provisions in the wilderness. Similarly, when fear arises, we must remember the times God strengthened us to accomplish the impossible.

The episode reveals the danger of a "focusing illusion" when challenges appear larger than they are. Caleb and Joshua, despite the fearful reports from the other spies, courageously trusted God’s promise. They focused on the goodness ahead rather than obstacles behind. As ambition requires courage, we learn Wholeheartedness - not hesitation or half-heartedness - receives the full reward. Though courage can be difficult, it unlocks our calling. Without courage, we risk wandering in our own wilderness.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• A positive belief has rewards. Despite overwhelming negativity, Caleb and Joshua focused on God’s faithfulness and were rewarded. [25:13]
• You’re likely the minority in your ambitious beliefs. Like Caleb and Joshua among the doubting spies, you may stand alone in pursuing your bold vision. [29:44]
• Wholehearted courage receives the reward. Half-heartedness has consequences. God requires courage to obtain His promises. [36:33]

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About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit:

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[00:41] The book of Deuteronomy retells the story to the next generation right before entering the Promised Land. There are leadership principles to apply.

[03:33] After God commanded the Israelites to enter the land, they got scared and wanted to send spies first rather than simply having faith. This opened the door to doubt.

[06:44] Despite God's past miracles and provision, the people still refused to believe in God's continued faithfulness. The focusing illusion made obstacles appear larger than reality.

[10:22] Like the minority report from Caleb and Joshua, if you pursue great things, few may share your ambitious belief at first. But you must maintain courage despite overwhelming doubt or negativity around you.

[13:11] Your mind will subconsciously get you what you truly believe - which is why controlling your focus is so vital. If left unchecked, obstacles can easily overshadow opportunity.

[16:44] Staying “in the zone” spiritually keeps doubt at bay. Just as falling off track physically impacts your mindset, compromise kicks you out of your courage zone.

[20:33] The people missed out on reaching the Promised Land because at the final step, they got fearful and were barred from entry. Likewise, we must have courage right through to the end.

[26:11] The “focusing illusion” makes tough challenges seem all-important when in reality, they are likely not as serious as they appear. Keep perspective.

[29:22] Holy following of God’s leadership for your life is rewarded. Half-heartedness has consequences. Tough roads often lead to great destiny.

[32:00] If you slack spiritually, doubt can creep in. Stay closely connected to God as you pursue your purpose. Uphold your standards lest fear undermine your courage.

[36:55] Nothing great comes without extraordinary courage first. Keep your vision clear, summon bravery, and walk into your promised land.