Proven Principles Of Success Series | Flint

Have you heard of "flint"? If you're into how weapons are made, you probably have heard of this stone.

According to geology.com, flint is a type of rock that, when hit against steel, causes a spark to fly out. Back in the day, flintlocks were the early versions of "guns" or "firearms" used often in battle. Flint is also a durable gemstone, making it the hardest stone used in forging weapons or other hard materials (https://geology.com/rocks/flint.shtml).

Why talk about "flint" when it comes to success? Simple: most people's "determination" isn't cut out for the hard knocks of life. That sounds harsh, but let me explain. While "flint" is a durable rock, our spirit should be just as durable. But how can it be if we are not tested and tried? How can we say that we've received blow after blow and still stand; yet cower at the sight of failure? A spirit that cowers is a spirit that hasn't been forged by steel. When we have a calling on our lives, there will be things that will test our spirit and our determination. These tests shall prove to us whether we have a spirit of flint; or a spirit of lint.

The Prophet Isaiah went through blow after blow for the calling God placed on his life. He mentioned "flint" in how he described his spirit after the beatings he received:

"I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting. Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame." - Isaiah 50:6-7

Wow, how many of us can say that? We may not have been beaten up this bad. But blows in life that we can attribute to are financial setbacks, a sudden decline in health, betrayals in relationships, a sudden business closing down, or being let go from a job that you poured your heart and soul into. Yet how many of us can still forge on?

Now, what did he mean "therefore have I set my face like flint"? Again, we mentioned flint as a type of stone that, when beaten by steel, produces a spark. Setting his face like flint is another way for saying: "I am unshakeable; and a force to be reckoned with. I have been through the fire, and I can still stand. I am focused and determined to reach my goal, despite the setbacks and losses." Unfortunately these days, it's laughable how easy it is to get distracted. One of the most powerful distractions isn't social media, although most people would think it is. How many of us watch the news? How many of us listen to the news? How many of us read the news headlines on Facebook and social media? Most people underestimate the power of the news media outlets. It's supposed to be informative. But throughout the years, it has become more manipulative by distracting people with more negativity and backlash than sharing true information.

If you follow Elon Musk or Bill Gates, you'll notice that these success giants don't really involve themselves in talking about the news. In fact, they are on the news, making headlines. Why? They are busy making moves towards their success goals; while others are busy watching which politician is supposed to be in office. They don't involve themselves in media hype or backlash because they set their faces like flint. They focus on building and creating; not following and tearing down. If they can do it, why can't we?

If you desire to be successful, set your face like flint. Be unstoppable. Be immovable. Be unshakeable. Even if it costs you your friends or family, go for it! Your dreams are on the line. Steel yourself for the battles to come, so you can be battle-tested and ready for the many victories to come!

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