Facility Management, or as we like to call it Facility Stewardship, is a complex and demanding role that requires a combination of skills, foresight, and adaptability. In pursuing excellence, facility stewards often seek inspiration from various sources, including God’s written word.
One unexpected but rich source of wisdom can be found in Exodus 4:2-9. In these verses, we find valuable insights that can guide facility stewards in their quest for efficiency, innovation, and overall success.
Exodus 4:2-9 — A Brief Overview
In Exodus 4:2-9, Moses hesitates to accept the monumental task of leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Feeling inadequate, he questions his ability to fulfill this divine mission.
In response, God provides Moses with signs and instructions, demonstrating that with the right mindset and trust, even the simplest tools can yield extraordinary results.
Lesson 1: Embrace What You Have
Facility stewards, like Moses, may sometimes feel limited by resources or capabilities. It is common to complain about what we “don’t” have (i.e., budget, staff, vendors, reserve funds, support from our leaders, etc).
However, the lesson from Exodus 4:2-9 is clear: embrace what you have. God asked Moses, “What is that in your hand?” In the same way, facility stewards should assess and maximize the potential of their existing resources. Whether it’s technology, personnel, or facilities, recognizing the value in what is already available can lead to creative solutions and improved efficiency.
Lesson 2: Embrace Innovation
God instructs Moses to throw his staff on the ground, transforming it into a serpent. This symbolic act emphasizes the power of transformation and innovation. Facility stewards can draw inspiration from this, understanding that embracing change and innovation is critical to overcoming challenges. Just as Moses’ staff was not confined to its initial form, facilities and processes can — and should — evolve to meet the organization’s constantly changing needs.
Lesson 3: Trust the Process
Throughout the passage, God reassures Moses that the signs are meant to build trust and confidence. Similarly, facility stewards should trust the process of improvement and change. Implementing new strategies may initially seem challenging, but positive results can be achieved with faith and perseverance. Trust in the plan, collaborate with your team, and navigate challenges resiliently.
Lesson 4: Effective Communication
In Exodus 4:9, God instructs Moses to perform the signs before the elders of Israel, emphasizing the importance of effective communication. Facility stewards should clearly communicate their vision, plans, and changes to their team, leadership, and congregation. Transparency fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a more unified and efficient operation.
Conclusion: Embrace What Is in Your Hands
The story of Moses in Exodus 4:2-9 provides valuable lessons for facility stewards navigating the challenges of their roles. By embracing what they have, fostering innovation, trusting the process, and communicating effectively, facility stewards can lead their teams to success.
Just as Moses overcame his doubts and led the Israelites to freedom, facility stewards can overcome obstacles and guide their facilities toward excellence. But you have to have the right mindset and intentionality.
What is in YOUR hand?
