SLIGHT EDGE Composed by CDR Steven L Roberts

SLIGHT EDGE Composed by CDR Steven L. Roberts, USN Through the training and mentorship of Pastor William H. Stewart

INTRODUCTION Having a Slight Edge grants individuals the opportunity of becoming greater leaders. The difference is not in ability or intelligence; it is in personal application. It is working to be more creative and better trained. Gaining a Slight Edge is dependent on focus, attention to detail, and the willingness to work. The following are 23 items that will give you, The Slight Edge…

ITEM #1 “Learn to be an Early Riser” What you do the night before will have a direct affect what you can accomplish the next day. Plan to get at least 6 hours of sleep, and schedule your events of the evening accordingly. Set the alarm on your watch, download an app to your phone, or schedule a wake-up call with the front desk.

ITEM #1 “Learn to be an Early Riser” (Continues) Make it your goal to rise 15 -30 minutes earlier than you would normally, and then… make it a habit. “How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest--and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. ” - Proverbs 6: 9 -11

ITEM #2 “Have Good Posture” In his Epistle to the Romans, chapter 12, Paul says… “By the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. ” – Romans 12: 3 Having sober judgment in accordance with your faith in God will express itself visually, so… have good posture.

ITEM #2 “Have Good Posture” (Continues) Walk tall. Not in a conceded manner, but with confidence. It is okay to be confident in that fact that God likes you. Why? Because he does. He likes spending time with you. He enjoys hearing what you have to say. The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah tells us that he has a great plan for you. (Jer 29: 11) He loves you, and he would like for you to love him. So… since God already favors you company… walk that way.

ITEM #3 “Be a Gentlemen/Lady in all Situations” Proverbs 31, says… “Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. A person of noble character who can find? They are worth far more than rubies. ” – Proverbs 31: 9 -10 (paraphrased) Appropriateness is a product of self-control and a hallmark of noble character. It is also a benefit to every situation. Adversely, to show the lack is to limit your impact and potential.

ITEM #3 “Be a Gentlemen/Lady in all Situations” (Continues) Dr. Ronald Blanc, Th. D. (pastor, professor, mentor and friend), taught me that words have power. He also said, "To speak them well is an art-form" -- the telltale sign of a lady or gentlemen. If this is true, then it would be appropriate to ask, "What picture do you paint for your audience; a masterpiece worthy of being displayed in the Louvre, or graffiti that would soil the walls of a freeway overpass? " The choice is yours.

ITEM #4 “Walk 25% Faster” In his first letter to his young protégé, Paul says… “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. ” – 1 Timothy 4: 7 -8 Keeping fit (spiritually and physically) is important. Paul says physical fitness is of “some value”.

ITEM #4 “Walk 25% Faster” (Continues) In the original language the word for training is gymnasia (Gk. γυμνασία), to which our English word gymnasium is a durative. It literally means to exercise. Now, physical training is not placed on the same level (value) as godliness. Why? Because in this “present life” our bodies breakdown. But the point is intention, or intentionality. Physical training is often something we GO TO DO; as in, “I’m heading to the gym. ”

ITEM #4 “Walk 25% Faster” (Continues) To walk 25% faster is something we DO AS WE GO. It is intentional action (it also gives the perception that we know where we are going). Jeremiah gave us a greater challenge. “If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses? ” (Jer 12: 5 a) Our goal is to use our gifts and talents to their greatest effect. Not to the disqualification of others, and not to rub victory in their faces.

ITEM #4 “Walk 25% Faster” (Continues) It is a desire to compete on a level far above ourselves. A level we can only attain through a relationship with God. “There is only one way to avoid criticism: do nothing, say nothing and be nothing. ” - Aristotle

ITEM #5 “Refuse to be Mediocre” “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. ” – 1 Timothy 4: 28 When an employer hires someone, he is looking for honest effort from his employee toward the accomplishment of the task assigned. That’s what he is paying for. When a worker chooses to give a sub-par performance in his duties, then he is receiving a paycheck for a job he did not do.

ITEM #5 “Refuse to be Mediocre” (Continues) He may say, “Well no one else works hard. ” But in essence, he is choosing to be mediocre – like everyone else. The one who gains the slight edge fights against this pressure. He refuses to give less than his best. He doesn’t steal, works hard, gets creative and bring his “A” game. You see, when you ask little of life, life will pay your price. So how much is your integrity worth?

; -> ITEM #6 “Guard Again Developing an X-Box Mentality” Ex. King Nebuchadnezzar, 605 -562 BC The King had developed a fantasy world and became an eccentric recluse in this “Virtual Reality” for 7 years Mental escape can be good, but it can be dangerous when things that are not true become reality for some; when the mind is “changed” from knowing what is true, to believing what is not. So don’t live within the walls of the X-Box. Use your talents. Develop your gifts. Learn to create and relate, and not simply to be entertained.

ITEM #6 “Guard Again Developing an X-Box Mentality” (Continues) In the end Nebuchadnezzar lost seven years of his life before discovering his real need for God. In the Old Testament book of Daniel, the King shares his revelation with the world. “At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation. ” – Daniel 4: 34 So for you, will it be real or virtual?

ITEM #7 “Develop Good Study Habits” Although Psalm 119 has 176 verses, it is broken down into 23 sections, 8 verses each, distinguished by a letter from the Hebrew alphabet; Aleph ( )א thru Taw ( )ת. In section two, Beth ( )ב , beginning in verse 9, the writer asks a very impactful question, “ ”יזכה־ןער במה - English “How can a man keep his way pure? ”

ITEM #7 “Develop Good Study Habits” (Continues) The question is asked rhetorically, “By living according to your word. ” (Psalm 119: 9) Point - Living by any standard requires a study of the standard. - Quote “There are two things that will change your life; the people you meet and the books you read. ” -- William H. Stewart

ITEM #8 “Make Wise Use of Your Time” Some Questions 1. Do I have a schedule (i. e. day, week, month, year, etc. )? 2. Have I learned to multitask during the peak seasons? 3. Am I looking over the horizon – what coming next? 4. Do I frequent the gym? 5. Do I read, take notes and practice my writing skills? 6. Do I attend to my spiritual fitness (prayer, worship, etc. )? - Truism “It is a wise man who uses the limits of his time to develop the balance needed for personal maturity in every area of his life. ”

ITEM #9 “Associate with Successful People” “He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. ” – Proverbs 13: 20 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. ” - Proverbs 27: 17 Confronting ourselves about the people we hang with is a sensitive subject.

ITEM #9 “Associate with Successful People” (Continue) Here a few of the repeat responses I have heard in my career as a Navy chaplain: Why’d you pop positive for steroids? “All of the serious lifters take candy. ” Why’d you haze that junior Marine/Sailor? “It’s our rite of passage. ” Why’d you steal the speakers from the chapel? “We needed better sound for our D&D Tournament. ”

ITEM #9 “Associate with Successful People” (Continue) The rustic proverb is true and the point is clear; “Even Duct. Tape can’t fix stupid”. Finally, each of us would benefit from an associate who refuses to let us give up, and challenges us to do our best. So who is it that screams for that last rep? Runs that last quarter with you so you can better your time, and proof reads your stuff? Hang with them.

ITEM #10 “Conduct a Weekly Inventory” What have you accomplished? What effort did you apply? What went well, and what needs some work? Get your thoughts together and write down things that need your attention. Quote “If you can’t write it down, then you can’t get it done. ” - William H. Stewart The point is that there are things so significant that they need to be written down; not because you might forget, but because they are world-shatteringly important; just as you are. - Revelation 21: 27

ITEM #11 “Keep a life journal/notebook” A personal history of situations faced, questions raised, blessing given and concerns pending. Ideally, I try to script out issues on the day I present them to God, and then note the “day” and the “way” they were reconciled, received or resolved. In the Old Testament, 4, 802 verses detail what men did over a span of 650 years.

ITEM #11 “Keep a life journal/notebook” (Continue) On the Prac-App, a Journal serves as a bullet list of your personal accomplishments, a brag sheet for Fit. Reps or Evals, and a “Buckslip” of the things you need to complete. It also helps to improve legibility in your penmanship; a skill each of us should possess. So… if you don’t have one, start today.

ITEM #12 “Implement God’s Word into your Daily Life” Psalm 119: 97 -109 These are promised if you put God’s word into their life: Tactical wisdom, insight, understanding, discipline, relationship, a positive attitude, mental development and personal guidance. Why? Because you meditated and obey God’s precepts. Here’s the point, meditation and obedience of any kind involves implementation.

ITEM #12 “Implement God’s Word into your Daily Life” (Continue) Without the implementation of precepts, all you have is head knowledge. It is the difference between knowing what is right and doing what is right. David said God’s word was his NVGs, and BTW David was a warrior. - He not only killed Goliath, but he was a marksmen who faced thousands on the battlefield God’s word guided him. What is guiding you?

ITEM #13 “Keep Physically Fit” Balance is key. We all have an area of natural ability; we have strengths… and weaknesses (physical, mental & spiritual). But in order to compete at the upper levels, an athlete must spend twice as much time developing their area(s) of weakness. Why? Because a smart adversary will study their opponent, looking for weakness. Racquetball – Broadway & Paradise Road But you can’t do either if you are not physically fit.

ITEM #14 “Look Sharp” This is an item that is losing its importance among Gen-Zs. Q. Did you know God gave guidance on how his professionals were to dress? (Exodus 29: 1 -9) His list included the following: - Hygene, Uniform, Flack/Kevlar, Ribbon Rack & Deodorant Finally, he made it a “lasting ordinance” (Exo 29: 9) So look sharp; be a professional – not only in how you act, but in how you dress.

ITEM #14 “Look Sharp” (Continue) Coordinated your colors; or have someone help you, and wear what is appropriate for the occasion. HINT: Shorts and sandals may get you the key to a gas-station toilet at Arco, but it won’t get you a swipe-card to the executive wash room at Berkshire Hathaway. Point - “Look the Part… and don’t skip the toothpaste. ”

ITEM #15 “Be Early & Leave Late” Of the items lacking popularity, this is perhaps #1. At the core of a sub-par performance is a lack of nobility - character. (Acts 17: 11) Men and women of noble character are open to instruction, eager to participate and zealous for the truth. When we are on the job early, and when we stay actively engaged throughout the day (no cutting corners), we foster an atmosphere of trust with our associates.

ITEM #15 “Be Early & Leave Late” (Continue) Eric Jerome Dickey coined the phrase, “Early is on time. On time is late, and late is unacceptable” The sad thing is that some of us have trained ourselves to be late, and we are reaping the harvest of the seeds we have planted. What about you?

ITEM #16 “Be an On-the-Job Learner” Illustration – Joseph was sold for $5. 66 U. S. “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. ” – Julius Rosenwald Sears, Roebuck and Company Joseph could have groused over being sold into slavery by his brothers. Wow, talk about dysfunctional. But complaining wouldn’t change his situation.

ITEM #16 “Be an On-the-Job Learner” (Continue) Instead, he learned to make lemonade from the challenges he faced. What was key for him? (Genesis 39: 2) Knowing God loves you, and knowing he is with you, is a key element in having a positive attitude. So be an “On-the Job” learner. Learn your job and the jobs of those around you, and understand that God being with you, will bless those around you.

ITEM #17 “Work harder than those around you” Many grow up with an attitude that says, “I don’t deserve to be treated that way. ” Which begs the question, “What do you deserve, and why? ” Grace is defined as “receiving something you don’t deserve”. It is the opposite of Mercy is not receiving something you do deserve. The Apostle Paul, because of the grace God extended him, used his gifts and talents to bless people. He worked hard at everything he was given.

ITEM #17 “Work harder than those around you” (Continue) He worked hard, not to win favor, but to help others -- extending to them the same grace God gave him. None of us deserve God’s grace, but you can allow it to motivate your work-ethic. So, work harder than those around you. Hustle. Move quickly. Don’t sacrifice quality. Out-produce. Be the best in everything you do (Dad/Mom, clerk, tech, Gunner, etc. ).

ITEM #18 “Do what others don’t like to do” What was your first job? What did it teach you? “When its all been said, then there’s no reason to keep talking. ” – William H. Stewart 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Arrive early Have a positive attitude Enjoy simplicity I learn to be creative Significance/Influence of small tasks Do them well Know what my first job in ministry was?

ITEM #18 “Do what others don’t like to do” (Continue) I learned the strategic importance doing things that others don’t like to do, and the power that comes with humility. Little known fact: American sprinter Jackson Scholtz gave a handwritten note to Eric Liddell, a British middle distance runner, just before the start of the 1924 Olympic 400 meter final. The script was 1 Samuel 2: 30; “The LORD declares, ‘Those who honor me I will honor. ’” Excerpt from Chariots of Fire, Goldcrest Films, 1981

ITEM #18 “Do what others don’t like to do” (Continue) “So where does the power come from to see the race to its end… from within. ” The power to run …to give more than you think you can … the power to do jobs no one wants to do …with an attitude of humility and great joy …comes from within – from one’s relationship with God.

ITEM #19 “Do the little things; do them well, and take responsibility for your actions” Illustration – John: “The Elder” John was still doing the little things – writing personal thank you notes, setting a positive example of the joys of humble service. He delegated appropriately. But he also dealt with problems only he could deal with. Diothrephes: a power-hungry, egocentric, megalomaniac vying for control through slander, manipulation and fear.

ITEM #19 “Do the little things; do them well, and take responsibility for your actions” (Continue) John knew he had to take care of Diothrephes personally. No dumping this one the young JG. He had learned to be thorough. He learned to do the little things and to do them well, but he also knew when to take responsibility -- even when it was going to get messy. He would not allow himself to neglect the details. What about you?

ITEM #20 “Create a job for yourself” “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the LORD, not for men. ” – Colossians 3: 23 Illustration – Monkey Wards My motivation to serve God, created a job for myself that turned out to be far more influential than I ever thought. So create a job for yourself. Through your work-ethic, positive attitude and willingness to serve, show yourself to be an indispensable member of the team.

ITEM #20 “Create a job for yourself” (Continue)

ITEM #21 “Be a good steward of your finances; pay your bills on time” This is a discipline issue. Why? Because we worked to make the money and many don’t want to work a second time in order to use it wisely. “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. ” -- Luke 16: 10 -12 A “Steward” was a house manager – a servant who was put in charge of the owner’s stuff. He was the owner’s overseer, employed in that capacity as the master’s fiscal agent.

ITEM #21 “Be a good steward of your finances; pay your bills on time” (Continue) So, handle appropriately your time, talent and treasure. - Make a budget. Develop a daily, weekly and monthly schedule List goals you want to accomplish 1, 3 and 5 years Pay your bills on time, guard your PII Manage the time spend in the virtual world. Shut down the Oasis on Tuesdays and Thursdays - Ready Player One, Warner Bros. 2018

ITEM #22 “Have a good attitude” Ditch the entitlementality. Be grateful for what you have. Appreciate those who care about you, and the opportunities you’ve been given. Quote “All I’m responsible to do is to provide each sailor with an opportunity to succeed. ” - CMC Michael Wilkins, USN You have unbounded potential to succeed in life, but your attitude will play a monumental role in whether you do or not. Ephesians 4: 22 -24

ITEM #22 “Have a good attitude” (Continue) A few life altering quotes about attitude: “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference. ” -- Winston Churchill “People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude. ” -- John C. Maxwell “Weakness of attitude becomes weakness of character. ” -- Albert Einstein

ITEM #23 “Seek God first, and learn to trust Him” Illustration Solomon asks for a discerning heart (1 Kings 3: 9) Q. If given a blank check from God, what would you ask for? Solomon was known as the wisest man who ever lived. Listen to the significance he places on seeking God. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. ” – Proverbs 3: 5 -6

ITEM #23 “Seek God first, and learn to trust Him” (Continue) So if the wisest man who ever lived tells you to “Trust in the LORD”. What should you do? In speaking about how to have a worry free life, Jesus Christ narrows focus to that of knowing God, as our Heavenly Father. “Seek first his (God’s) kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ” – Matthew 6: 33 To reduce stress; to enjoy what you do; to gain that Slight Edge… seek God first and learn to trust him.

FINAL COMMENTS Here’s the rub and rules of thumb: “If I don’t do my best, then I cannot be trusted. ” “Success without integrity is failure. ” “Respect is given to those who earn it, not to those who demand it. ” So your Slight Edge waits. But… will you take it. Many Blessings

QUESTIONS