Walk Forward With Confidence
At the end of basic training, they were assigning us to our duty stations. We did not get to choose where we went, but were allowed to have a general 'wish' list. I was hoping to go somewhere in the south (where I could get a good tan) or overseas. They walked down the rows of soldiers, saying, "North Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, Texas.... and then they came to me. They said, "Rud- Alaska.
" I responded, "You have GOT to be kidding!" What I didn't know is that Alaska is considered an 'overseas' assignment. For many men, Alaska is the dream. Not for me. I knew almost nothing about Alaska, and had very little interest. After 3 weeks of Airborne School and a short leave, I would be on my way to become an Arctic Paratrooper. My future was not panning out the way that I thought it would.
I had been told by a recruiter when I signed up for 'unassigned' infantry that I would be able to choose my job once I got to basic training. I believed it. I was told when I signed up for Airborne School that I would be sent to Fort Bragg, North Carolina. I believed it. Life had thrown me a significant curve ball. My new life was not only unfamiliar, it was unwanted. How do you respond when life interrupts your plans? Anger? Depression? Do you lash out or give up? Do you wallow in your bitterness or self-pity? True, those ARE options, they simply aren't good ones.
Better is simply to shift gears, change your thinking, adjust your goals, and move forward with a positive attitude. A good deal of life is interrupted by unwanted challenges. But then, the same thing is true of any adventure. As a child of God your victory has already been won! Lift your head up, walk forward with confidence, and you will be blessed! -Pastor Brad
Written on July 29, 2025
Posted in Daily Devotions