Tag: The Salvation Army

Dear Salvation Army, 3 Things Corps Officers Should Know About Their Soldiers!

Last week I wrote part 1 of this “two sided coin” so to speak – 3 Things Soldiers Should Know About Their Corps Officer(s)

Today I would like to conclude the second side of the coin on the topic of “things the Corps Officer should know about their Soldiers!”  Understandably without Soldiers in our corps doing the amazing work that they do, we are hopelessly lost!  We need strong soldiers to lead.  We need strong leaders to help the Corps Officers.  I understand that sometimes these two dynamics in the corps does not “gel” the way it should.  Both sides of this coin ought to recognize that we are all on the same team…but sometimes, unfortunately, it doesn’t feel that way.  I believe Satan thrives upon our disunity and polarizing leadership directions.  He wants us to fail.  We, often times, will fail in our corps, not because we lack the appropriate resources to complete the mission, but because we can’t see eye to eye, or we all think that we know what is best for the corps and we take opposing directions.

The Corps is the forefront of The Salvation Army mission – make no mistake about that!
Yes, vital lifesaving missions are also located in the Harbor Light, and ARC’s and Schools and Shelters, and in a way they are a corps unto themselves.  At the Corps level we engage the enemy and we see the hopelessness of those who come to us for help!  This fight isn’t just about who the Corps Officer is (it was never about that in the first place) but about who will lead and who will serve Christ in every aspect of this mission to the lost.
blood
3 Things Corps Officers Should Know About Their Soldiers:

1.  They Are The Long-term Investors
Local Officers and Soldiers have been there long before you came to that appointment, and they will be there a long time after you are gone.  They have invested in that the local Corps’ mission.  They understand that community probably much better than you ever will, no matter what education you might have and what your grade point average was at Training College.  I do not mean to sound snarky here by any means, I simply wish to convey how invested most soldiers are to that current Corps.  They are the backbone of the corps…or at least they should be.  Sometimes (and I know this is true) Corps Officers have run over Soldiers and Local Officers to accomplish what they believe the direction of the corps should be.  Sometimes this has happened the other way around as well.  Every Corps is different, this much is true, but when Corps Officers and Soldiers work together side-by-side, we work for the same purpose, the same cause.  Understand, Corps Officers, that your Soldiers and Local Officers are the Long-term investors of your corps!

2.  They Want To Be Led By Godly, Consistent Officers! uniform
Corps Officers, it is imperative that we lead our corps and its constituents in a godly manner.
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” 1 Peter 5:2-4
Yes, hold your local officers and soldiers accountable, but be accountable to these same standards as well!
Don’t ask something of others that you yourself aren’t willing to do either.  Be the kind of leader that leads by example and does the hard work right along with your soldiers!  God honors holy leaders who are consistent in word and deed!  Be consistent leaders!  Lead by humility and love, not by power and might!  Don’t lord over others with your authority, after all, you can and will be replaced one day.  Invest in your soldiers, but also give fully of yourself where possible.

flags3.  Delegate, Lean And Learn!
There is a HUGE difference between a seasoned Officer and a salty one.  Don’t be a salty one!  There will be difficult days as officers in this Army.  There will be times when you will want to take out your frustrations upon soldiers.  Choose your battles wisely.  Confront when you need to confront, but do so in love and by first praying about every situation that you face!
If you think of yourself as Super-Officer that wears a navy blue and red cape and one who doesn’t need any help from soldiers and local officers, then you need to kill Super-Officer.  There, I’ve said it for all soldiers everywhere.  YOU. CAN’T. DO. EVERYTHING. YOURSELF.  So stop trying to be Super-Officer, because Super-Officer will ultimately burn out, fade away and become discontent.

Corps Officers, you need to understand the vital usage of delegation.  Moses couldn’t do everything and so, thankfully he began to delegate responsibilities.  Don’t hold the reins of everything so tightly that you begin to slowly strangle your corps to death.  Let others lead when you have individuals willing and able to lead.  It may not meet your standards at first, but trust them, teach them…don’t enable your soldiers to always rely on the Officer to do everything!  You shortchange and stunt the growth of your soldiers and leaders when you become Super-Officer who leads and does everything!  So get rid of Super Officer, and delegate, teach and lean on your Soldiers!

Lastly, do not think for a minute that you have learned all there is to know about leadership, and that your soldiers and local officers can’t teach you something new!  Always be pliable and teachable yourself!  Recognize that book-learning sometimes isn’t enough and that life-learning can aid you to become a better, more godly Officer.   Your Corps, your present appointment can and will teach you something wonderful if you are available to be taught.  Do not become so prideful in your abilities that you become arrogant and incapable of the kind of change that you yourself preach about from the pulpit to others.

These are just three things Corps Officers should know about their Soldiers.
There are many more…but it begins by listening.
It begins by listening to the Holy Spirit, to your Soldiers and to the community that you serve!
So listen, lead your flock that are long-term investors, and lead them well!  Allow them to teach you something.  Allow them to learn with you.  Help them develop into the best leaders that they can be as well!  Together we can accomplish this great mission.  Together we are a stronger army!  What say you?

Something more for our Army to ponder today!
To God be the glory!

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Dear Salvation Army, 3 Things Soldiers Should Know About Their Corps Officer

The Salvation Army is an unique body of Christ is it not?
With that being said, each corps is unique.  Each corps has its own specific strength(s) and its own specific weakness(es).  We can all recognize that challenges do come to our corps structure & ministry.  Sometimes soldiers can look at the present issues happening in the corps and cast a blanket of blame all upon the corps officers.  Sometimes the corps officer can look at the present issues happening in the corps and cast a blanket of blame all upon the soldiers.  Sometimes the blame is shared…sometimes it is not.

I do not wish to imply that all our corps are going through problems and concerns ALL THE TIME.  This is certainly not the case.  There have been some wonderful mountaintop experiences.  There have also been wonderful moments of fellowship, where we share with each other what is on our hearts.

Today I would like to provide some information to every soldier out there about your corps officer.
It is my hope that the next installment will include “3 things Corps Officers should know about their soldiers”, but today here are three things every soldiers should know about their corps officer.  Some of this might be obvious to some of you, but I will highlight these anyway.

1.  Corps Officers are people too!
I hate to burst your bubble here, but (shocking statement ahead) your corps officer is NOT perfect!  They are just people too!  They do make mistakes sometimes.  This shouldn’t be taken to mean that soldiers should be looking for those imperfections in their corps officers, but it does mean that we should all exercise a good measure of grace!   Some of the corps officers have families, and family events will take priority over other events.  This won’t always happen but recognize that just as you have a life apart from the Corps building your corps officer also has a life apart from the corps building.

Be mindful of how your criticize your corps officer.  It will be very easy to take your complaint to other soldiers in the form of gossip and slander.  Please watch what you say.  Your corps officer(s) have feelings as well.  I am not saying don’t criticize if criticism is necessary, but do it in a way that is God honoring…go to that corps officer.  Provide solutions in constructive criticism, don’t just be a grouchy corps member that offers only complaints but never offers any way to solve your concerns.
Your corps officer is a person too…so please be kind!

flag2.  They need encouragement too!
This leads to this next thing you should know about your corps officer.  They need encouragement from time to time.  The Army serves some of the hardest living people in your community.  There are things that your corps officer is doing for the corps behind the scenes that you may have no idea they are doing.   There are days of great discouragement that your corps officer goes through.  There will be times when your corps officer feels defeated and just wants to throw in the towel and quit.  You can become an awesome source of encouragement to them.  It doesn’t take much.  Perhaps a kind word from time to time.  Perhaps take them out for coffee or dinner.  Invite them over.  Show them love and that you appreciate them.  Perhaps you feel as if you “don’t like them” or you are looking forward to the next “move cycle” in hopes that they are moved.  BUT… let me ask you, have you taken the time to really get to know them?  Have you gone out of your way to encourage them?  Don’t give up on your corps officer, it could be that they are extremely discouraged and they just need to feel that they are loved and that they belong in your fellowship.  You may never see eye to eye, but you can be the reflection of Christ and encouragement to them!  Give it a try!

3.  They need leadership too!leadership
Your corps officer will most likely kiss and hug you if you become proactive in your corps and take the initiative to step up and lead in your corps!  Don’t just suggest things to do and programs to lead but expect the corps officer to do it all…they can’t, and more importantly you might be missing out on the blessing and challenge of leading something new and vital for your corps!  You take the lead.  You offer yourself up to serve.   You be that encouraging leader for your corps!  God has called you to step up and help!  We are an army of soldiers not just unthinking zombie-like followers.  I don’t mean any disrespect in that comment, but the army needs more strong godly leaders to take the initiative in their corps.  Will you be that leader to come along side your corps officer?

These are just three things every soldier should know about their corps officer!  This isn’t the end all and be all kind of list, it is only a primer to a much deeper conversation.

Uni1NEXT TIME: 3 Things Corps Officers Should Know About Their Soldiers!  
Something more for our army to ponder today!
To God be the glory!

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Dear Salvation Army, 3 Ways To Embrace The Uniform

**I envision a couple of movies unfolding in my mind where non-conformists make the “required” uniform more fashionable and, dare I say more aesthetically pleasing.**

Let’s face it (and let’s get this out of the way right off the bat) – The Uniform is not going to win any fashion awards.
It will not be walking a runway in Paris or being featured in one of those high-end boutiques anytime soon.
Chances are older generations will be more prone to argue for consistent uniform wear than most of the younger generational soldiers.   I am not here to argue for or against uniform wear (an auditory sigh can be heard being exhaled all around the Army world).    I am here however to recognize the need for such a uniform in our army.

uni1. Recognizable
The uniform is recognizable, sure it might be a marketable feature from time to time but it should also be a symbol of hope to people who see it.  There are many soldiers and officers who can bear witness to the fact that people will inevitably come up to us and say something to the effect of “Oh, The Salvation Army, you don’t know me but The Salvation Army saved my life….” The uniform is recognized by those it has helped as well as those who want to help.  We may have to sacrifice some comforts in order to wear it.  By putting it on we are taking off our personal identities and some of our individuality and becoming a part of something greater than ourselves…or better yet, perhaps our identities and individuality begins to make this Army greater than before.  We do this together.  We wear the uniform for a purpose.  We share in this mission and fight not as a solitary soldier but as a unified army…so be recognizable!

uniform12.  Christ-likeness
I am not saying that Jesus donned one of our finest polyester threaded navy blue uniforms or anything, but I am saying that we can embrace the uniform by understanding what it stands for.  Remember that the “S’s” stand for Saved to Save (or Saved to serve).  Who have we been saved by?  – Christ.  He has provided us this salvation and displayed for us what holiness looks like.  We have been saved for a holy purpose – to show others how new life can be and to help others navigate the murky sin-sick waters of life as well.  We can glorify God in these uniform through the ways that we conduct daily lives.  Can we practice “Christ-likeness” out of uniform?  Of course, and we ought to, but we can also utilize this semi-comfortable contraption to bear witness of a transformed life.  I am not saying wearing the uniform is always easy, but neither is living a holy life.  Again, we can draw some parallels here but they are not mutually exclusive either.  If you are a soldier and you are committed to the cause of the Army then consistent uniform wear is probably a given.

uniform3.  Uniqueness of Witness To Others
Barring that you don’t get delayed in airports often and get frequently mistaken for airline pilots and staff members, the uniform can be a relatively unique witnessing tool.  People are quite curious as to what the uniform is all about.  If anything it’s a wonderful conversation starter.  Bear in mind that witnessing is so much more than the old “gospel tract” methods.  It is so much more than “cold calling” people, or yelling from a street corner “Jesus Saves”.  People are people and want to be engaged as such.  If we have hidden motives and agendas we are disingenuous in our witness.  Wearing the uniform will either scare people away or cause them to ask certain questions…and who knows perhaps you can develop a relationship with someone because of it.  With wearing the uniform, we do not hide the fact that we are Soldiers and Christians.  We all know of areas in which Christianity has been tarnished by inconsistent witnesses and down right hypocritical people – and we cannot afford to be that kind of witness while in uniform.  Seriously, if you don’t think you can be a consistent witness in and out of a uniform (PLEASE JOT THIS DOWN) – THEN DON’T WEAR THE UNIFORM!  I don’t mean to be harsh but either wear it with conviction or don’t.  Either embrace the symbolism behind the uniform or walk away from it.

uniform3 The Future of The Uniform?
Look, I don’t know what the future holds for the uniform, but if what we have seen in the last 20 – 30 years indicates anything, the Salvation Army uniform can and will change.  This doesn’t mean that it will all but disappear, but it might mean that certain adjustments will be made – **ahem the bonnets and high collars…will skirts and pantyhose be next?  I don’t know.  Can I say that I ALWAYS enjoy wearing full uniform – of course not!  Will I stop wearing my uniform as long as I am a soldier and officer – No.  Would I welcome some adjustments or modifications to the uniform in the future?  You bet I would!

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Dear Salvation Army, Submission, Ego & Abuse

I enter into this pondering knowing full-well that some may consider this rebellious conversation – this is not my intention at all.
I would like to discuss the concept of submission within the ranks of the Army.
Is submission biblical?
Submission-WDGSA
Obvious answer – Yes.
Biblical Answers See:
Romans 13:1-7,Titus 3:1, 1 Peter 5:5, Ephesians 5:21

Were there instances in the early church where submission to authority was abused?  Of course.
The fallout between the Apostle Paul and Peter was epic.
Peter exercised his authority in an inconsistent way.  He ate with Gentiles on one occasion then on another when friends of James came by, he refused because he was afraid of criticism and pressure among the “circumcised traditionalists”.
(see Galatians 2:11-13)

Some might contend that this wasn’t a submission issue, but how would the Gentiles have felt in this instance being relegated and placed below another group of people because of what they did or didn’t practice?
It was an abuse of power that the Apostle Paul had to confront Peter on.  After this or shortly after this period there is a shift in leadership within the early Church and Paul becomes the most prominent leader.  Peter still had a role to play, naturally, but this was a pivotal moment when two leaders collided on an important issue.

On Ego and Abuse: ego
Whether it is The Salvation Army, the Roman Catholic Church or places of government – egos will exist.
There will always be those who wish to achieve a certain type of status and power in order to be placed above others.
After all, didn’t the disciples argue amongst themselves as to who would be greatest (Luke 9:46)?
It isn’t too far fetched to conceive that there are times when leadership and ego collide.
Good leaders will brush off the temptation to display their power over subjugates and those they lead.
Poor leaders will wish to remind others of who they are and just who is in charge.
Honestly it is a sign of character weakness when ego in leadership leads to abuse of power.
Examples of power struggles in our Army have happened over the years.  Many variables take place and cannot always be chalked up to just ego and abuse, but it is not unheard of to have leaders ship off officers and (even employees for that matter) are sent to “punishment appointments”.  It is sometimes a means to an end.  It is sometimes validated.  Sometimes this environment develops a culture of fear.

Have we cultivated this “culture of fear” in our Army?
I certainly hope not.
I do believe that there are godly men and women who lead in a manner of holiness and conviction.
I am also not naive in my thinking that ego and abuse are exempt in our Army…it does happen, but I am hopeful that this is a rare occurrence instead of the norm.  Some might call me naive in this thought…so be it.

gloryWho do we submit to?
One of the verses that helps me on this topic (because I am really not good at submitting, if I am brutally honest) is Ephesians 5:21 – “Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
I am not a conformist by nature.
I am a fighter.
I will tell you how I feel – there’s no beating around the bush with me.
I know that I must temper this…I imagine you do as well.
I must admit submission is one of my personal struggles.
It isn’t about pride with me, it is all about trust.
For me trust in leadership has to be earned.
I need to know the leaders I serve under have my back.
I need to know that leaders I serve under will support me.
I need to know that leaders I serve under won’t throw me under the bus.
I need to know that leaders I serve under will treat me (and other officers and staff) with honesty, godliness and humility.

1.  We submit to God. 
In this complete submission we find peace no matter what life or “Army life” throws our way.
When we can fully submit to God (which isn’t easy) we can, as an act of worship to Him submit to the leaders that He has placed in our path.  This is where the rubber meets the road, so to speak.  This is where the true test of our mettle lays.
We can say “we trust God and we are submitting to Him fully,” and yet our actions can tell us something completely different. Holiness isn’t just about living in our corps and in our communities, holiness is also about living a life of submission…some might say these two things go hand in hand.  Will there be bad leaders who abuse power and who are led by ego?  Yes, but everyone will have to account for their own actions one day before the Father.  What we can do within our personal holiness is submit to Him first and allow Him to work in our submission to others.

2. Submit to Authority
This authority includes leaders we work under.   We are all imperfect people and we all make mistakes.  The higher you go within the spectrum of leadership, the greater the pressure and the higher the scrutiny.  Have mercy on those who lead you. Show respect, love and patience.  You may not always agree.  I am not saying roll over and accept decisions that are wrong…but choose your battles wisely.  Choose also how you will respond to criticism and correction.   This happens in every aspect of life, whether it’s a correction by a police officer for speeding, or it is a moment of correction in a conference room with your supervisor – be godly people and react in godly ways through it all.
This. is. a. tough. place. to. respond. with. holiness.

Does abuse and ego happen in our Army? – Yes.
Can we change that dynamic?  I certainly hope so.  I am willing to change it, are you?

1. Pray for your leaders.
You might be surprised what God can do to perhaps soften their heart as well as yours.
Also in our prayers God can reveal to us places where we need to be focusing on our own egos, pride and issues.
2. Some Day, Who Knows, You might be that leader…then what?  
A wise man once said to me – “remember how you were treated by that person/leader, and then strive to become a better person/leader than that in your own life.”

This is our army. flag
Lead by Submission to God.
Follow by Submission to God.
And in between, no matter the conflict Submission to God.

“So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.”
(Count Your Blessings/Johnson Oatman, Jr.)

Something more for our Army to ponder today!
To God be the glory!

2

Dear Salvation Army – 3 Questions To Ask Before Becoming An Officer

Dear Salvationists,
this is not 3 “magical beans” reminiscent of Jack and the bean stalk, this is simply an exploration into officership.

The Truth:
Officership is not for everyone.

The Lie:
In order to live out my calling as a Soldier I MUST become an Officer.

I do not say this to discourage anyone from becoming an officer, please do not misunderstand me.
I wish to dispel the myth that in order to be fulfilled in ministry within the army one must ALWAYS become an officer.
I do not wish to undermine anyone’s calling either.
If God has specifically called you into Officership, then by all means fulfill that calling!
There are, however, some within our army who feel that in order to do more and be more they must become officers only to discover that this was not the right choice for them.  I believe this certainly does contribute to the continued and troubling attrition rate amongst officers.  One way to address this issue (loss of officers) is to ask the hard questions prior to becoming an officer.  Sometimes, not always, individuals enter training with a pie in the sky, unrealistic concept of what Officership looks like, or should look like, and then when they are sent out to appointments reality hits and they begin to say to themselves “this isn’t what I signed up for”.  THQ and DHQ are very good at reminding officers of the covenant that they signed (sometimes too good) but in all honesty some consider this covenant as just another hurdle to become an officer and wear that red trim.

Understandably, the screening process and testing done for prospective candidates has become more elaborate (depending on the territory, it will vary).   With these benchmarks in place it does help to process “qualified” candidates.  In saying this, I recognize some might take offense to this, perhaps because they did not “qualify”, or are currently in the process of becoming an accepted candidate.  To some this is frustrating.  The testing process, like many things in life, is not perfect.  Individuals have potentially made the screening process only to phase out in training or eventually leave the work for a multitude of reasons.

Putting that aside, please allow me to share three important questions one should ask themselves before committing to Officership.
DISCLAIMER: These three questions are merely primer or starter questions and are not meant to be all inclusive.  There are many more variables to consider before taking that important step, but here are three suggested questions to consider:

questions13 Questions To Ask Before Becoming An Officer:

#1 Why do I want to become an Officer?  
When we ask this personal question of ourselves we can hopefully draw some conclusions as to our purpose and intent for wanting to become an officer.  Be honest.  If you can’t be honest with yourself, then who can you be honest with?  Answering this fundamental question of officership can help to further clarify your personal goals in life.  If you feel as if God has specifically called you into this then that should be your answer.  uniIf you don’t know why you want to be an officer – that is your answer (as murky as that is)…and so you explore that possibility.  If you answer this question on the basis of relatives who are also serving in the army and you signed up because it is comfortable and familiar to you – there’s your answer.  I am not saying any, other than God calling you, are completely wrong reasons but they do become the catalyst for what kind of officer you do become.   Perhaps make a list of all the reasons that you want to be an officer, jot them down on a notepad so that you can better see them.  This might help you make a comprehensive decision and not one that you might regret if you enter into this decision half-hearted and unsure.

pray#2 Have I prayed about this?
Another honest question to ask yourself.  Not to scare you or anything but this decision is a big one!  It will impact everything that you do in life.  That doesn’t mean that you can’t change directions later, but it means that you can make the right choices at the onset by simply and prayerfully considering this decision.  Please note that I am not discouraging anyone from becoming an officer, in fact if anything I am pleading to anyone considering taking that step to do so with prayerful consideration which involves the Lord throughout the process in a daily walk with Him.

Start a prayer journal if you’re a writer or can better connect to God in this way.  For some of us articulating these emotions upon the page can help us sort through our spiritual decisions.  Have others pray for you as well.  This is probably obvious, but take the time to ask the Father for guidance.  Be specific.  Pray for support and the proper guidance of other people.  Pray and don’t hide any motives from God, because naturally He already knows our hearts.

#3 Can I Live This Life of Submission? jesus
This is the Officers Covenant that is signed while at College for Officers Training:

MY COVENANT

CALLED BY GOD
to proclaim the Gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ
as an officer of The Salvation Army

I BIND MYSELF TO HIM IN THIS SOLEMN COVENANT
to love and serve him supremely all my days,

to live to win souls and make their salvation the first purpose of my life,

to care for the poor, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, love the unlovable, and befriend those who have no friends,

to maintain the doctrines and principles of The Salvation Army, and, by God’s grace to prove myself a worthy officer.
Done in the strength of my Lord and Savior, and in the presence of (the following wording to be adapted to local circumstances) the Territorial Commander, training college officers and fellow cadets.

This calling to become an officer is a sacred decision.
I do not wish to sugarcoat this.  covenant-signing
I also do not wish to paint an officer’s life as always glorious, or always rosy, or always joyful.
These things do happen,  there will be setbacks, heartaches, days of discouragement, stress and disappointment.
When we deal with people, even leaders can and will make mistakes.
We are not perfect people, but we are striving to live a life of humility and submission.
Is this easy?  ABSOLUTELY NOT!
For some of us, this is the hardest thing we could ever do.
Many do not like being told what to do, where to go, and sometimes how to do something.
Politics does happen.
Favoritism does happen too.
Living within a relationship of submission to the Lord in this capacity will not be easy.
We do trust that He knows what He is doing even when we feel others have made leadership mistakes.
We do trust that He will lead and direct even when sometimes the directions seem skewed and wrong.
Submission first to God allows us to live this life under the authority of the Army.
Can you live this way?
Are you prepared to submit to this kind of authority (even when you may not always agree)?

The life of an Officer is rewarding.
It can be fulfilling…but is this the right decision for you?
Only you and the Lord can answer that question.
There are many, many saints in this army.  Some wear red trim on their tunics and some wear blue trim on their tunics…these saints are equally needed and important in this army!!  If God has called you into Officership then get on with it and stop dragging your feet!  If He has not called you into Officership but into a place leadership and service as a soldier and/or employee of this army, then get on with it also – YOU ARE NEEDED regardless if you wear red or not.

Something more for this army world to ponder!
To God be the glory!

6

Dear Salvation Army, 10 – Salvationists That Have Inspired Me…

Paul had Barnabas to inspire and encourage him even if they didn’t always get a long in the end.
Paul became Timothy’s mentor who inspired a new generation of the early Christian church.
Throughout history there have been those who have stepped up to lead by example.  They have been mentors, accountability partners, strong godly leaders, examples of holiness.  Despite all of these things, none of them (and most will freely admit this) were perfect or had it “all together”.

getGet this:
Our Army needs more inspiring leaders like the ones I am about to list!
Perhaps this is you…perhaps you are the next generation of leaders about to step up and take this mantle.  This isn’t some sort of popularity contest, or ego trip…this is leading and serving as a godly example for others.   Many do this without any fan fare.
Most simply want to be like Christ and so they strive daily to humbly serve and become living examples of Him to the rest of us.  We certainly need more of these inspiring servants in our Army today!

Scriptural Reminders for us today: 
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” -Ephesians 4:2
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ…”  1 Corinthians 11:1
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved [a]you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God [b]as a fragrant aroma.”  Ephesians 5:1-2

This is not an exhaustive list, and I know that as I share my personal list with you, you will undoubtedly have others that come to your mind.   Also do not be offended (I will get my self in trouble with family and friends…sorry) if I do not list people that you know, or if I do not mention you…as I have already said this is not an exhaustive list.  There are many more!

uniform10 Salvationists That Have Inspired Me…
This isn’t some sort of ranked order, rather this is simply a list that I have currently compiled.
(sorry I may not have pictures for everyone)

1.  My Mother and Father – Colonels Dennis and Sharon Strissel
Dennis
My parents have exemplified godly living to me.
I have witnessed their impact on this army both in the United States as well as in Africa.  They have always been servants first. Both my mother and father have been advocates for those without voices and have stood up for the marginalized.  I count it an honor to have these two as my parents.  They are faithful soldiers even as they head into retirement.  They have inspired me to be better, to make the army better, and to never settle for mediocrity when we can, in own selves, do more.

cox2. Majors Bill and Betsy Cox
If I were asked who exemplifies holiness to me, these two loving people would come to mind.  They have been mentors to my wife and me, and like second parents in the army to us.

I know that when I talk to either of them, when I have concerns and problems, they always give careful thought and grace in their responses.  They are just genuine people who love the Lord with all of their hearts and it just pours out upon those who are privileged to know them.  They make me want to be a better pastor and follower of Christ.

Colonels Dahl restore historical Will Rogers sign at Camp Wonderland.
Colonels Dahl restore historical Will Rogers sign at Camp Wonderland.

3.  Colonels Marv and Bodil Dahl
Admittedly not the best picture of these two beautiful people, but you must know that Colonel Marv is a painter and despite current physical challenges, he is still a wonderful artist.  This picture is recent and both Colonels Bodil and Marv gave 90 hours each to this amazing restoration project.

Words cannot express how encouraging these two saints of God have been to me in this present appointment!   These two have been Barnabas’ to us.  They are truly servants first and then they offer their wealth of leadership advice!  I am inspired by Colonels Dahl because they operate from a place of compassionate care and concern for fellow soldiers and officers.  They take the time to listen and they are willing to make time for you.

4.  Commissioner Dinsdale Pender
This was years ago.  I was just a small boy with parents living on St. Helena Island.  My parents where the missionary officers there on St. Helena for four years.  I distinctly remember Commissioner Pender coming to the Island for a visit.  As the band welcomed him at the seaside docks with a rousing song, he fiddled with his brief case as if attempting to pull out his cornet to play as well.  For me the reason he inspired me wasn’t so much what he said, honestly I was a small boy and cannot remember much of that time.  But what I do remember of him was his charisma and humor.  He made leadership within the Army look smart as well as fun.  He always seemed to have a smile and brought a sense of whimsical humor with the concept of leadership.

5.   Major Stephen Court and Major Danielle Strickland Court

Both Stephen and Danielle bring a sense of “in your face” kind of Salvationism that’s been missing in our army for a while (in my opinion).  Their ministry has been global, it has challenged me.  I truly appreciate their leadership (albeit from afar).  I can remember going to a commissioning in which they were the guest speakers.   They didn’t hold anything back, and it was powerful.  I’m not attempting to puff anyone up here, it was just something I will never forget and it has inspired me within the ministries I have been privileged to lead.   Both in their own rights are extremely talented writers and communicators and I admire their willingness to challenge our Army onward!
They are a spark within in our army which has become a catalyst for a new generation of Salvationist!

gowans6.  General John Gowans 
I remember his leadership as General.
How he spoke of the three legged stool of Salvationism.stool
His leadership style at times chaffed against some, but I found him to be refreshing.  He was a shot in the arm for the Army.  He had vigor and passion to see a greater army at work in the world.  I admired him and he inspired me to be a better writer and communicator for this army.  He also inspired me to push the boundaries of our “bubble” within the Army.

trans7.  TransMission (Southern Territory, USA)
This is the real deal Salvationist.  They have a passion to minister to the hearts of young people through music.  They are just down to earth guys who love the Lord.  Marty

I appreciate how TransMission have incorporated doctrinal truths into their music ministry and their passion and zeal to lead others to Christ is inspiring!  Being a movement of holiness, the progression and integration of modern styles of music has planted and watered a seed within a younger generation of Salvationists.

Adams8.  Commissioner Clive Adams

Commissioner Clive has been a source of encouragement to me within my officership as well as a writer, contributor and avid fellow blogger that I greatly admire.  He is a gifted leader and communicator and another down to earth Soldier who inspires others…plus he’s a fellow Man-United Fan!
When I read his blog postings I am encouraged and enjoy his humor as well as his candid honesty within our Army.
Read9.  Commissioner Harry Read
In my heart I have a special place of poets and Writers.
Commissioner Harry Read is still an avid poet who conjures up lines of thought provoking honesty within the minds of Christ-followers and Soldiers.  His ‘Heart-talks’ posted on social media as well as in the printed word inspire me to better articulate this holy path we all walk on.  He is a treasure to the army and although I may embarrass him in this post, I admire his ongoing active ministry.  He spurs me on, and I am sure he provides this boost in many other Salvationists around the globe.  Heart_Talk

10.  General Albert Orsborn general

My life must be Christ’s broken bread
My love His outpoured wine
A cup o’erfilled a table spread
Beneath His name and sign
That other souls refreshed and fed
May share His life through mine
(SASB #512 My Life must be Christ’s Broken Bread)

Obviously I never met General Orsborn, but his words within some of the songs that we still sing in our Army strike me at my core.  These lyrics speak to me about holiness, selflessness, servanthood, and what our Army should be all about.  I get inspired every time I sing the above mentioned song among others that he has written.

These are just ten Salvationists that have inspired me in my lifetime.
There are many more and, as I have already said, please do not become offended if you or someone you know isn’t mentioned.  This is not an exhaustive list.

Question:
Who has inspired you?
Please share your comments below, it is wonderful to hear these rich stories as we testify of God’s redeeming love!

Something more for our Army to ponder today!
To God be the glory, and may we aspire to be all that God has called us to be not only to inspire others but because we deeply desire to be like Christ in every way.

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Dear Salvation Army, Too Much Rhetoric Not Enough Practice??

You don’t have to be in a political office in order to view politics…it’s everywhere including the church.
Church/corps splits have happened because of truly silly things – “the color of the carpet in the sanctuary”…really??

I’m feeling a little feisty today, so please bear with me.
army
Rhetoric…and Holiness???
The Salvation Army struggles with too much rhetoric and not enough practice sometimes.
What do I mean by this?
We (like any church) are so good at saying all of the right things.
We (like any church) are so good at wearing all the right clothes…ahem the uniform.
We (like any church) are so good at touting our scripture verses and doctrines…but can it become more about outward appearances like when the DC, TC or General comes to visit than about personal/corporate holiness?

Sometimes I feel as if we are very good at polishing the outside of the cup while we just keep neglecting to do the hard stuff like cleaning the inside of the cup (our hearts).  We try and try to impress the “brass” with our efforts and works but are we truly living consistently?  This isn’t some sort of witch-hunt today.  I’m not pointing the finger at anymore more than I am pointing fingers. back. at. myself.

This is Personal…
This is truly personal.
if this resounds with anyone else, then great!
Let’s do something about this together.
I honestly know that I am not the only one who struggles with this.
We are so good at singing ‘the Founder’s Song’ in Holiness meeting and thirty minutes later we’re at our favorite “Sunday Lunch Spot” complaining about the wait time, the server, we barely give a tip and then we complain on our way home about the traffic and some ignorant sap who just cut us off…do you get what I’m saying?

This is Deadly…blood
I, for one, do not want to be a member of the Salvation Army in Laodicea, if you get what I mean (Revelations 3:14-22).
If I’m honest, I’d rather rip off this uniform and walk away from it all before I start striving to become a pew warmer and a luke-warm one at that.  The church of Laodicea, according to Revelation, didn’t get their act together.  They didn’t have the passion to serve Christ as His bride.  They weren’t on fire for Him, instead they were barely tepid in their faith.  Sometimes I feel that in our Army we walk a fine line too.  We can utter all of the “catch-phrases” of our Army like “Fire a volley” and “Hallelujah”  but on the inside we’re so caught up in the bickering and pettiness that are missing out on the fire of the Holy Spirit.  I don’t think we need another Pentecost, it’s already here we are just so caught up in our own issues that we can’t see it…that’s just how I see it…I hope I’m wrong.  When did we desire to be a mediocre Army?  When did we sign up to warm a pew but as soon as the hard work comes we’re suddenly absent?  If we are truly “witnesses for Jesus” why aren’t we more visible with this message in the streets?  We cannot hole ourselves up in beautiful Halls of worship and expect the brokeness of neighborhoods to be mended by how well we sing and play an instrument.  We’ve got to get on with it!  We’ve got to either catch fire and be moved by the Holy Spirit or we need to get out of the way and stop hampering the Spirit and the potential growth of other Soldiers.  Either warm up or be spit out.

shielfThis is real…
I have felt this sting of conviction.
I don’t write this as a “guilt trip” for anyone before it strikes my heart and brings ME up short first.
We need to stop “playing” army and be army.
We need to stop fighting amongst each other and fight the real war for the souls of those who are lost.
We need to stop spouting half-empty words of rhetoric when our hearts aren’t in it and instead fall upon our faces and recommit ALL OF WHO WE ARE to Christ once more.
We do not need pew warmers and more apathetic bodies in uniforms, instead we need leaders who are servant who will serve and love regardless of where someone came from or what their last name might be.
We don’t have time to play “church politics”…this gets in the way and stunts our growth as a corporate body of holiness.

It’s “Put up” or “Shut-Up” time.
I have seen the walking dead amongst soldiers and officers.
I have seen the passion-less works of apathetic hearts.
I have witnessed the “going through the motions” without a resemblance of the practice of holiness.
We have a choice.
We can either put up or shut up.
We can either live lives worthy of this calling upon our lives, or we can stop pretending and get out of the way.
This is a wake up call.
This is a call to holiness.
This is a reminder that there is more to it than donning on the uniform and spouting all the right words.

How is your heart today?
How is your spiritual journey?
This is something more for our Army to ponder today.
To God be the glory!

2

Dear Salvation Army, 5 Healthy Habits For Healthy Salvationists

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”     -Mark Twain

How do you become a quality soldier of Christ?
How do you find out why you were born and how to become the very best “You“?
Perhaps you became a Soldier of this Army and wondered to yourself “what next?”
Perhaps there have been those in your life (in the corps, in your family, in the Army in general) who have truly paved the way for you to strive and have set certain quality standards for you to emulate.

Without a doubt we have witnessed negative examples too, but let us focus today upon 5 healthy habits for healthy salvationists.  These are obviously transferable and not singularly exclusive to the Salvation Army experience.  Certainly I could have easily called this “5 Healthy Habits for Healthy Christians”…but for the sake of continuity and for the sake of a majority of this Salvation Army readership, I will leave it the way it is…you’re welcome.  😉


5 Healthy Habits for Healthy Salvationists

books1

1) Become a Reader (Challenge Yourself!)
I still recall a certain Commissioner whose first question would always be “So what are you reading?”
This was asked to prompt critical thinking and to communicate the importance of reading.
No matter if you are a fast reader (my wife) or you are a rather slow reader (myself), reading challenging material is rather important to developing healthy habits in our lives.

DON’T:
Don’t just read fiction.
I love fiction, it spurs on my creative side and I can easily become immersed in the characters of a good novel…BUT there are numerous quality spiritual writers out there who can challenge us and shake our preconceived understanding of God, the Universe and the world in which we live.  If we only reside in the comfortable fiction section of the bookstore or library, we will limit the opportunities for personal growth and further spiritual understanding.

DO:
Do seek out challenging writers of various topics – not just Christian writers.
Do read the works of certain writers that you might fundamentally disagree with.  When we simply refuse to read books from certain writers, speakers and thinkers just because of what others have said about them, we may miss out on some critical thinking/development and real teaching moments.  Reading these challenging pieces doesn’t mean you have to always agree with them, but refusing to read these works could limit you and prove just how closed minded and small your ideology is.  I don’t mean to insult anyone here, but I have heard people speak from uninformed – closed minded perspectives.  They sound like fools regurgitating bits of information that others have spouted and rather than discovering it for themselves rely on others to formulate their opinions.  When we challenge our understanding of God, even by reading controversial books, we begin to formulate our very own personal spiritual understanding of God.  This is vital as we mature in the faith.  Challenging traditional and even contemporary views by reading books from various authors from a wide spectrum of thought can help us to better define our love relationship with the Most High.  I will caution you though, in the same breath, to be on the lookout for crackpots, charlatans and heresies for they do certainly exist.

2) Ask The Hard Questions hard questions
When we become “readers” we in turn begin to develop and formulate difficult questions that we ourselves cannot answer.  Do not shy away from such conversations of faith.  Also do not be afraid to ask these questions to those with whom you know to be more mature in the faith.  It is not wrong to ask such questions.  It helps us to grow and become healthier followers of Christ.  When we refuse to step up to such challenges, we could very well be limiting the possibility of growth that could occur in such ventures of spiritual exploration.

Understand too that  pillars of our faith have walked these paths before us.  These “saints” of Christendom did ask the difficult questions.  These “saints” of Christendom did not bypass such important defining ventures of faith.  Do not be afraid to ask and to seek out that which currently is unknowable to you.

accountability23) Accountability, Mentors & Sharpening
In order to possess the healthy habits of reading and asking the difficult questions as a Salvationist, there is also the crucial need for accountability and mentors which help us to sharpen and hone ourselves into spiritual maturity.  It is understandable that maintaining a consistent accountability partner or mentor can be daunting and sometimes impossible, but strive to continue to seek out these people in your life.  Sometimes these individuals will change over time as people move in and out of our lives.  We NEED the assistance of fellow believers to spur us onward in becoming healthy Christ-followers.  Here within this vulnerable yet safe environment the difficult questions can be asked, the spiritual “check-ups” can take place.  Some people are more determined than others to possess these kinds of relationships and so they actively seek them out.  Others are more reticent to ask because of fear of rejection or making the wrong choice for accountability and mentor.  Be aware that such relationships will give us tools we ourselves do not personally or currently possess, after all, a solitary piece of steel cannot sharpen itself can it?

4) Exercise & Healthy Eating
(here goes…I hope I don’t step on anyone’s toes…)healthy-life
What we put into our bodies in regards to nourishment matters!
We cannot feast every day on junk foods, carbonated drinks and fast-food.  These may momentarily satisfy our cravings and sometimes aide us in times of stress, but they WILL lead to health issues.  How we treat our bodies and what we eat can determine how long we have on this earth to be effective Soldiers of God!  It may sound kind of funny, but realistically if we have surrendered our ENTIRE life to the Lord, this includes our eating habits and our daily activity schedules.  One could argue that our physical bodies are secondary to our spiritual conditions but I believe that these are interconnect and not mutually exclusive.  What we do with our bodies can have a lasting impact on our spiritual journeys as well.  To simply limit our existence within the spiritual realm while discarding our physical condition seems foolhardy and wrong.

A healthy soldier is also concerned about the upkeep of their bodies as well.
It may not always be the first priority, but it should be a close second as we become conscientious of our active and inactive lives as well as the foods that we eat.  Discipline shouldn’t be exclusively utilized within our spiritual path and completely vacant within our physical well-being.

5) Develop A Disciplined Personal Prayer And Devotional Life devotions
A Healthy Soldier is not only a reader; questioner; involved in some measure of accountability and in possession of some form of healthy physical attributes, but they should also seek to develop a disciplined personal prayer and devotional life.  There are many ways to do this.  Do not think that just because one soldier reads THAT devotional book that everyone must follow suit.

Do not underestimate the gravity of a healthy prayer life!
Also do not underestimate the need for a healthy devotional life either.
These two forms of spiritual discipline can become dry and drab if we do not change our study/focus habits up from time to time.  Without a healthy prayer life, we are essentially placing limits on our interconnected relationship with the Father.

SUGGESTIONS: Find a simple, yet profound daily devotional if this helps you to develop the discipline of spiritual study.  This is not the same as the first suggestion of “Become a Reader”, this is in addition to “digging deeper”.  There are numerous spiritual classics that can be used in tandem with the Word of God.  Even some contemporary devotionals can help to “feed” and “nourish” the soul.  Seek these out, and purposely take times of the day to pray for yourself and others.
wrap
These are just five suggestions to developing healthy habits for healthy Soldiers.
This is not an exhaustive list and understandably there are many more ways to become a healthier soldier.
Consider these today!

Something more for our Army to ponder today!
To God be the glory!

0

Dear Salvation Army – Be Survivors!

“There is a great irony here: proclaiming so much love, experiencing so much hate!  But don’t quit.  Don’t cave in.  It is all well worth it in the end!  It is not success you are after in such times but survival.  Be survivors!  Before you’ve run out of options, the Son of Man will have arrived.”  (Matthew chapter 10, The Message)
fight
Dear Soldier,
are you struggling right now?
Have you experienced resistance, obstacles, opposition?  Good.
I don’t say that to discourage you, but to encourage you.
If we are fight this good fight for the right reasons and with the right heart, we WILL face opposition and discouragement.
If we “take up our cross and follow Jesus” we WILL find times when we feel like quitting…when we feel like throwing in the towel and mutter to ourselves “someone else can do this, I’m done.”  Don’t quit…don’t give in.  Be a survivor, dear soldier! This isn’t about the call for more officers or soldiers, this is a call for more holiness and more humility within our ranks.  This is a call for each of us to push ambitions aside and the thirst for power and authority to “do what we want”.

This has never been about the applause of man.
This has never been about the acclaim by and approval of leaders.
This has been about fearing God first, putting Him above all other things and within that selfless first step be survivors and dare I say “thrivers” in this campaign against sin.

How is your heart today, dear soldier?
Defeated?
Lost?
Empty?
Struggling to “catch a break”?
Be encouraged.
The One who has overcome the world stands with us!
The One who loves us beyond measure upholds us!
The One who provides us peace WITHIN the storm calms our weary hearts as well and gives us the power to overcome and survive…and hopefully thrive as well.

Something more to ponder today!
To God be the glory!

3

5 Cosas para las que no te preparan en la Escuela de Cadetes

Enfrentemoslo, no todo se puede enseñar en un salon de clases.

¿Te sorprendería saber, querido soldado , que en la escuela de cadetes no te pueden enseñar todo lo que necesitas saber sobre convertirse en un oficial? Probablemente no. Pero cuando la llanta se une al pavimento, y cuando un oficial es finalmente comisionado y toma su primer nombramiento, ellos tendrán  ¡MUCHO que aprender todavía! Algunas cosas no se pueden enseñar, Deben ser experimentadas, experimentarlas de primera mano.
cadet

Hoy he numerado 5 cosas para las cuales no te preparan mientras estas en la Escuela de Cadetes. no es que no te las quisieron enseñar, pero como los dije antes, algunas cosas se deben aprender en el Campo de Batalla.
Hay muchas mas categorías de experiencias que los oficiales no pueden aprender durante su entrenamiento, estas son solo algunas de ellas:

  1.  Las realidades de las finanzas para una organización no lucrativa.

La clase de presupuestos está muy lejos de lo que sucede al sentarte a cuadrar los números en tu comunidad y asegurarte de que tienes fondos suficientes para pagar la nómina, pagar los servicios, y otros gastos no planeados que frecuentemente aparecerán. Nada parecido a como se veía en el salón de clases, en la vida real algunas secciones de este presupuesto tiene identidad humana asociada con los números que te resultan. Ser muy conservador con los números en la sección de empleados podría significar que eventualmente despedirás alguna persona de tu equipo de trabajo..eso no es nada divertido. cadet3

En segunda, muy seguido te encontrarás con que  simplemente no hay suficiente dinero para trabajar.

Tú podrías tener la bendición de ser enviado a una comunidad que apoya tus esfuerzos y las finanzas están sonantes. pero lo más seguro te darás cuenta de que cada dólar es difícil de conseguir y igual de difícil será retenerlo. Todos sabemos que no todo se trata estrictamente de dinero, ¿Cierto? Se trata de dar oportunidades y recursos a la gente que podemos ayudar. Con esos fondos que se evaporan tan rápidamente, te encontraras en aprietos para suplir las necesidades humanas en ¡Su Nombre!

  1.  La necesidad de tener mentores personales y gente que te aliente.

Yo recuerdo muchos cadetes en mi sesión que estaban a punto de ser comisionados quejarse de la difícil vida que tenían en la escuela. lo restringidos que estaban, y que ya no podían esperar a estar ya en sus nombramientos. Yo me sentí así algunas veces también, pero en realidad cuando finalmente nos enviaron a nuestros nombramientos a lugares específicos, muchos rápidamente reconocimos cuan solitarios pueden ser los nombramientos, aún en ciudades grandes, los horarios de trabajo no te permiten tener mucha tiempo para relacionarte con otros oficiales. Un oficial en un nuevo nombramiento puede rápidamente sentirse muy solo y hasta pude sentirse abandonado. Nuestro primer nombramiento estaba a 5 horas de nuestro Cuartel Divisional. A veces lo sentíamos como una bendición , y otras veces sentíamos como si hubieran estado a  4000 millas de nosotros. encourage

Los Oficiales necesitamos quienes no alienten, necesitamos consejeros.

No podemos hacer este maravilloso trabajo solos y sin apoyo. Busque una junta de pastores y únase a ella. Localice a un pastor de una denominación diferente cercano a su comunidad y relaciónese con él. Busque su amistad. Para aquellos que son introvertidos esto puede ser difícil de hacer (exponerte) pero es necesario para tu sanidad y para sobrevivir. La pregunta que nos hacemos muy seguido es ¿Quién pastorea al pastor? Con certeza que tu Comandante Divisional tiene un papel que desempeñar en esto. algunos son muy buenos en esto, otros no tanto. Honestamente la mayoría de los oficiales divisionales que conozco tratan de hacer un esfuerzo pero ellos están tan ocupados como usted.
Nota de Consejo: No dependa solamente de su Oficina Divisional para aconsejarle y alentarlo..simplemente no va a suceder inmediatamente (la mayoría del tiempo) Busque amistades, otros pastores, algunas veces un miembro del cuerpo maduro y confiable del cuerpo le puede ayudar.  Usted necesita este tipo de relaciones para mantenerse funcionando..confíe en mi palabra no es necesario hablar mucho de esto en el entrenamiento pero sin un mentor o consejero usted se sentirá absolutamente  solo, derrotado, y potencialmente se encontrará en su oficina haciendo el borrador de su carta de renuncia.

 3  La Imperfección de la Humanidad y Aconsejando esa imperfección. broken

Algunas historias que escuchamos como oficiales a puertas cerradas en un intento de aconsejar gente con el corazón roto. Pareciera que todos nosotros  tuvimos clases de consejería en la Escuela de Cadetes… pero nos fallan comparándolas con las horas que tenemos que usar dando consejería en nuestro oficialato. Algunas veces no encontramos respuestas fáciles y soluciones rápidas para toda una vida de problemas y heridas que vendrán a su oficina …A veces lo único que podemos hacer es susurrar una oración al Señor para que nos guíe en medio de estas historias de abuso, heridas y tristeza. Tenemos realmente la oportunidad de impactar a los quebrantados en nuestras comunidades.

No asuma que usted es Dr. Phil o Dr. Oz o quien sea…este no es un show de televisión. Estas son vidas…son importantes…Manténgase en oración constantemente por aquello que vendrán a su oficina. cíñase antes de tener estas sesiones… a veces ellos son espontáneos y si no se preparó en oración se encontrara desprotegido. .. Ánimo, esto fue lo que usted firmó y a lo que se comprometió a hacer. También tenga ánimo porque el Doctor de doctores le dará dirección y guía. Finalmente, donde sea posible, tenga a la mano contactos de consejeros profesionales de su área que le puedan ayudar, canalícelos si puede. pero eso no significa que a usted le va a dejar de comunicarse e importarle esa persona. Recuerde, ellos vinieron a usted, ¡Confían en usted! ¡Esa carga es pesada de llevar y una gran responsabilidad también!

love1

  1.  Amor sobre sabiduría

Yo fui un cadete muy entusiasta, lleno de ideas y de pasión, esa pasión no se ha ido simplemente se ha re-estructurado.
Yo recuerdo, como muchos cadetes recuerdan, que al caminar por la plataforma para recibir mi comisión y nombramiento pensábamos, “Ahora finalmente verán lo que yo puedo hacer. ¿Orgullo? ¡Si! Ingenuidad. Pero, ¡No pierda esa pasión de salvar y servir almas! no retroceda en los fracasos y el desaliento…esos estarán ahí de todas maneras, los días difíciles vendrán.  Nota para usted: Pare de tratar de ser el !Súper Oficial!

Aquí les comparto una clave a ustedes cadetes que están en entrenamiento todavía. Y este es uno de los mejores consejos que recibí de uno de mis mentores y de otros oficiales. Más allá de los que sabe de ellos, ¡Ame a los miembros de su cuerpo! No vea su nombramiento como un escalón de asenso a un mejor nombramiento. No pase por alto las necesidades de los pocos que vienen a sus puertas cada Domingo y mitad de semana. Ámeles, hecheles porras, muestreles el amor de Dios. A veces le va a tomar mucho esfuerzo mostrar ese tipo de amor. A veces usted no tendrá paciencia y querra rendirse con alguno de ellos …pero no lo haga…No se deje llevar por su conocimiento intelectual que no le permite amar desde su corazón a aquello que está dirigiendo. esto se hace obvio. la Gente SABRÁ cuando usted no les ame. la gente verá mas allá de sus planes y estrategias de conocimiento, ámelos de principio a fin.

defeat

  1. No tendrás la Victoria en todas las batallas. 
    “¡Para llevar el mundo a Dios!

¡Mi parte haré!¡Sin descansar!

¡Para llevar el mundo a Dios!

¡Mi parte haré!¡Sin descansar!”

-Evangeline Booth

No ganaras cada batalla, querido soldado, algunas batallas las perderemos. Algunos soldados, algunos miembros del cuerpo, algunos recién convertidos se irán. Algunos rechazarán el amor que les ofrecemos, pero debemos hacer nuestra parte sin importar sin importar las pérdidas de la batalla en el camino. Si somos fieles y verdaderos a nuestro primer amor , sobre pasaremos estas situaciones. Sería mucho más fácil rendirnos, sería mucho, mucho más fácil irnos. Levantar las manos, retirarnos y nunca caminar hacía a adelante otra vez.. pero…RESISTA esa tentación. En la Escuela de Cadetes estábamos rodeados de otros cadetes y oficiales que nos estimulaban. En clase las ideologías eran formativas y de entrenamiento. Las ideas nacen dentro de nosotros, pero cuando salimos a nuestros nombramientos, vamos a estar cara a cara con las batallas estamos muy mal equipados para ganar solos. Debemos depender en el poder y majestad de Dios no solo para sostenernos y recibir las victorias en esas batallas imposibles de ganar.  Cuando cambiamos nuestro poder por el de Dios, todo es posible. Cuando cambiamos nuestra debilidad, conocimiento temporal por su fuerza y eterno conocimiento- Todas las cosas son posibles. Cuando paramos de intentar ganar la batalla por nosotros mismos y nos arrodillamos en completa sumisión a Él- Todas las cosas son posibles…pero solo pasará cuando muramos a nosotros mismos y nos

nos abneguemos como Él en todas las áreas.
Amados cadetes, soldados, postulantes, (y hasta oficiales)- NUNCA estarán suficientemente preparados para ir a esos nombramientos. La Escuela de Cadetes nunca podrá prepararles para todas las cosas que traerá su ministerio en el Campo de Batalla…pero sepa esto: El Dios de Abraham, el Dios de Isaac, el Dios de David va con usted. Nunca estará solo. dependa de su guía. Busquele cada día…momento a momento..¡ÁNIMO!

¡Algo mas para reflexionar en nuestro Ejército!

¡A Dios sea la Gloria!
(Translation by: Margarita Martinez Reyes)

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