For our Military , we are proud of your service for our country !

1. BY CHAPLAIN KEN SAMPSON

2. GUIDEPOSTS OUTREACH
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INTRODUCTION
Springing back when hit with adversity... remaining
flexible and buoyant in the ups and downs of life...
persevering and thriving through difficulties... all
identify resilient individuals and teams.
In writing these thoughts, I’ve gone back to my
daily prayer journals of deployments to Afghanistan
in 2002 and again 2003-2004. I’ve recalled individu-
als, experiences and incidents that served to build
my resilience over the years. The prayers of former
Chaplain of the United States Senate, Lloyd Ogilvie
(1995-2003), have been instrumental in framing this
project.
This booklet identifies right thinking and char-
acter strengths, God-given perspectives to live a
vibrant, energized life. Read through the entire
work to get the full picture. Then, drill down into
each thought. Periodically refresh your thinking
with these truths. Experience God’s energizing pres-
ence—every day, no matter where you are or what
you’re facing.
Chaplain Ken Sampson

3. 1 2
Join the company of good men and women, keep your
feet on the tried-and-true paths.
—Proverbs 2:20
“Surround yourself with only people who are going
to lift you higher,” reads a hand-painted wooden
plaque on my wife’s bookcase. The message speaks of
the encouragement we receive from positive, uplift-
ing individuals.
Good women and men surround us in Armed
Forces circles. They help raise energy and enthusi-
asm as we pursue our nation’s high call.
Confront selfish or self-centered thoughts with
this truth: God works through his people to sustain
and stabilize us. Celebrate this. Renew your appre-
ciation for those with whom you serve. With elevated
perspective, enjoy the challenges and delights of this
day.
Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give
it all you’ve got....
—1 Corinthians 16:13
“The number one trait for an infantryman is persis-
tence—resolute, unbending, continuous,” instructed
my first Infantry Battalion Executive Officer. Finish-
ing what we start. Making step-by-step progress to
a goal. Our Armed Forces calling requires steady
purpose and determined will.
Yet, one beauty of faith is the truth that God’s
Spirit sustains and upholds us. He backs, supports
and carries us no matter the hardship or responsibil-
ity. His strength can firm our resolve.
When tempted to take a shortcut or go for the
quick fix, refocus. Be persistent. God’s gracious
power is available. Open your eyes to His abiding
presence. “Give it all you’ve got.” Go forward, con-
fident and composed, ever-secured by God’s robust,
all-powerful hand.
1 Those Who Take Us Higher 2 Stick-to-itiveness

4. 3 4
Keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of
the Master, cheerfully expectant.
—Romans 12:11-12
We all recognize buoyant, invigorating people—the
motivated Noncommissioned Officer re-enlisting
for a combat-zone deployment; a Department of
Defense civilian whose spirits remain high despite
chronic illness; the widowed spouse whose conta-
gious good-humor enlivens all privileged to know her.
What is the source of this uncommon zest and en-
thusiasm?
“God sets us on the road to life,” reads Psalm 66:9.
He loves us. He desires the best for us. His grace
empowers us. His Spirit strengthens us.
When adversity numbs you to be dull, sluggish
and lifeless, remain alert! The One who sets you on
the road of life keeps you fueled and alive. Internalize
this timeless truth. Steer through conflicting times,
cheerfully expectant of God’s reassuring presence.
Pray that God will fill your good ideas and acts of faith
with his own energy so that it all amounts to something.
—2 Thessalonians 1:11
As members of the Department of Defense, we’re
well-acquainted with discipline. Whether wearing
the uniform properly, engaging in physical training
or learning military occupational specialty (MOS)
skills, we control our appetites, temper emotions and
live up to high standards. Self-control is essential.
Nevertheless, anxiety can dislodge us. Invasive
thoughts can immobilize. When assailed by such
negativity, focus on the promises of Scripture. “God
brings gifts to your lives” (Galatians 5:22). By His
inner power, we’re able to concentrate our energies
wisely. His assistance and care enable us to realize
our goals, step-by-step.
Composed and well-governed emotions can be
ours. With the Lord’s strength, we can press on,
confident our energies are directed right.
3 Energetic and Alive 4 Well-Directed Energy

5. 5 6
Counting on God’s Rule to prevail, I take heart and
gain strength.
—Habakkuk 3:19
“There will be only cheerful faces at this conference
table,” warned General Eisenhower on 19 Decem-
ber 1944. During the most gloomy and distressing
moments of World War II’s Battle of the Bulge, the
Allied commander knew the power of a positive
mindset. Alert, expectant, confident spirits—“game
face on”—were required of senior leaders.
During Combined Task Force Mountain, Opera-
tion Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), I daily inter-
acted with our Commanding General (CG). Whatever
the hour, circumstance or combat-leadership pres-
sure, never once did his “game face” drop. He trans-
ferred energy, vitality and exuberance of spirit to the
entire Task Force. It was a privilege to serve under
his day-in, day-out cheer-inspiring leadership.
Be immunized against distress and pessimism.
Challenge negative moods. Pray that God’s radiant
presence is reflected on your face. Visualize it hap-
pening. Enjoy divine joy and composure, whatever
the external condition.
What a beautiful thing, God, to give thanks, to sing an
anthem to you, the High God!
—Psalm 92:1
When we train correctly for a physical sport or
squad-level maneuver, we condition our muscles
to respond properly. When testing comes, “muscle
memory” automatically kicks in. We react with con-
fidence to meet the challenge successfully.
In the same way, we can train ourselves for grati-
tude to kick in. Habitual thanks is a beautiful thing.
It connects us directly to God and others. “Gratitude
memory”—thankfulness, appreciation—when im-
printed upon our consciousness, equips us to thrive
whatever the pressure of circumstance. Ordinary and
exceptional deeds of those closest to us can prompt a
thankful response.
Live generously. Thank teammates. Take delight
in showing gratitude. Condition your mind to con-
stantly give words of appreciation. Tap this inner
strength to increase your enthusiasm, energy and
vitality. In the process, gratitude will overflow and
infuse others.
5 Game Face On 6 Muscle Memory

6. 7 8
Good friend... Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom;
set your heart on a life of Understanding.
—Proverbs 2:1-2
Standing firm in the face of adversity. Being even-
tempered and well-balanced. Accepting the offer of
God’s wisdom rather than our own. Over time I saw
these character strengths develop in our first-term
chaplains and chaplain assistants.
Pre-deployment training through a “school for
preachers,” rigorous field exercises and mentoring
by more senior leaders helped prepare these new
teams. Then, in combat, I observed their tempered,
competent work. It brought great satisfaction.
God’s Spirit, living in us, can train us to be alert,
attentive to His guidance. A sound, calm state of
mind—free of obsessive, intrusive, catastrophic
thoughts—can be ours.
Adapt to stressful life events with the Lord’s in-
sight. Steel your heart to be receptive to His wisdom.
Go forward energized and refreshed.
I’ve filled [Bezalel] with the Spirit of God, giving him
skill and know-how and expertise in every kind of
craft.... he’s an all-around craftsman.
—Exodus 31:2,5
“Be safe, be blessed and get on the energy bus!” is the
e-mail tagline I received from a respected Sergeant
Major deployed to Afghanistan. The phrase is origi-
nal, unusual, fun. It inspires and elevates the spirits.
Often we fall into the routine. Dull, boring,
“mind-numbing” responses are a result. “Risk-
averse” solutions, so often boring and predictable,
become the standard.
Challenge your thinking. Realize that the power
of the Creator of the Universe resides within you. He
intervenes. Take appropriate risks. Creative imagina-
tions, fresh excitement, bold expectations of great
insights can be ours.
Confront the commonplace. “Get on the energy
bus! ” Seek creative solutions. In the process, you’ll
make a difference, powered by God’s artistic imagi-
nation.
7 Balanced and Mature 8 An Extraordinary Boost

7. 9 10
You’ve always given me breathing room.... A lifetime
pass to your safe-house, an open invitation as your guest.
—Psalm 61:3-4
Memories of chapel-attending NCO wives continue
to inspire me. Though their Soldier spouses were
deployed in the harshest of combat conditions, these
dedicated leaders thrived in the extraordinary chal-
lenges of life during war. Their influence continues
to capture my imagination.
As the chapel was a “safe-house” for these NCO
wives, so his quiet presence can strengthen and uplift
us. God’s calm confidence is available in the difficul-
ties and stressors of life. He offers a “safe-house,”
a place of quiet and repose, to give us “breathing
room” in times of adversity.
Receive His resilience-building fortitude. Do not
shrink from the threats and challenges at hand. Hold
fast to God’s mighty hand. In being faithful over the
long haul, His endurance-bolstering presence will
be yours.
But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high
calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s
instruments to do his work and speak out for him....
—1 Peter 2:9
“You must earn your way in war with courage and
skill,” writes one of our distinguished combat vet-
erans. “Flash” and insincerity are quickly erased.
Truth-telling and day-in and day-out dependability
are trusted values. These character strengths are
so crucial—be we public servant or Armed Forces
member.
As those chosen by God to do His work, we live
lives of integrity. We are sincere and honest in our
thinking, feeling and acting. Divinely inspired self-
awareness strips away invitations to self-deception
and manipulation.
When marriage vows are subtly threatened by
emotional closeness to someone other than our
spouse, we flee such unfaithfulness. When tempted
to distort the truth for personal advantage, we resist
such deceit.
God’s gracious, guiding hand steers us. Pursue a
walk of honesty and commitment.
9 Calm Confidence in Difficulty 10 God’s Chosen Ones

8. 11 12
I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it
everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I’m staying
alert and in top condition.
—1 Corinthians 9:26
“Sleep is the fuel for the frontal lobes of the brain,”
says one of our nation’s foremost authorities on
combat stress. “If sleep-deprived, then you’re really
out of gas.”
In combat deployments and training exercises,
our Armed Forces seem to reward superhuman rest
patterns. “Battle Captains” and “Iron Majors” go
for days with little or no sleep. Such drive, however,
takes a toll. We need restrained balance over the long
haul to stay alert and alive.
God provides us disciplined courage. He enables
calm assessment of our mental, emotional, spiritual
and physical conditions. Follow His lead in setting
sleep, diet, devotional and exercise patterns.
Obtain renewed personal courage from the Lord’s
inexhaustible reservoir as you implement your disci-
plined routine. Remain “in top condition, ” strength-
ened by God’s reliable power.
God went ahead of them in a Pillar of Cloud during the
day to guide them on the way, and at night a Pillar of
Fire to give them light….
—Exodus 13:21
Adventure. Exploration. Discovery. Life within the
Armed Forces can be one of tempered risk and thrill.
Whether “Airborne!” parachute or “Australian” rap-
pelling training, survival in Arctic cold or deploying
anew into a combat zone, our life is filled with variety
and challenge.
The robust support of God’s Spirit enables us to
be confident and open to new experiences. He often
takes us from comfortable, predictable routines into
new opportunities for growth and development.
Replace weariness, fear or indifference with
expectant anticipation. Be open to God’s guidance.
Recognize His all-surrounding, protective presence.
Press on to new adventures with excitement and joy.
11 Disciplined Courage 12 Adventure and Discovery

9. 13 14
What a wildly wonderful world, God! You made it all,
with Wisdom at your side.
—Psalm 104:24
The distant ranges of the Hindu Kush were in full
view on three sides of Afghanistan’s Bagram Air-
field. Snow layered the upper peaks for 10 months of
the year. Awe-inspiring views of the craggy ranges
are among my fondest memories of Operation En-
during Freedom.
Appreciation of the beauty of God’s created world
is key to a healthy mind and inner strength. Being
alert to and aware of God’s handiwork can uplift
spirits and expand perspectives.
This resilience booster is a proven way to more
joy, deeper meaning and connection with all of
God’s children. Be attentive to examples of His
handiwork—whether grand, snow-capped moun-
tains, delicate desert spring blossoms or exuberant
forest timbers. Allow yourself to be stunned by His
majesty. And realize that the creative strength of our
all-wise God is available to assist you this day.
God delights in his people.
—Psalm 149:4
The platoon was taking a break. After nearly three
straight days of rain, sleet and snow, Soldiers had
their boots off, airing skin and massaging toes.
I approached one infantryman, a regular at our
chapel services. Though the soles of his feet were
shriveled, pasty and inflamed, his warm, genuinely
cheerful greeting brought a smile to my face.
God takes delight in us. No matter what the
adversity or tough condition, His joy positively con-
nects us with others. Exuberance and serene compo-
sure can be ours.
When difficult circumstances tempt you to be
grim and tight-lipped, take pause. A life of faith is a
life filled with gladness and joy. Maintain your flexi-
bility. Enjoy the camaraderie of other team members.
Allow God’s Spirit to infuse good humor within you.
Approach the day renewed and refreshed.
13 Find Beauty Around You 14 Bringing Smiles to Others

10. 15 16
... Keep these instructions without prejudice, doing
nothing on the basis of partiality.
—1Timothy 5:21 (NRSV)
“Make sure you visit the forward observers,” coun-
seled the former Fire Support Team (FIST) member,
now one of my Chaplain’s Basic Course classmates.
“They’re often isolated—on 2-3 person teams, feel-
ing left out—and will benefit from a pastoral visit to
their forward observation post.” I took to heart his
guidance. A sense of fairness and equity drove my
attention to FIST teams and other equally isolated
squads. The chaplaincy experience for me has been
enriched in the process.
Focusing on justice and equality reminds us that
we’re all in this calling together. This principle of
fairness builds people and teams and is critical to
resilience.
In settings of high drama and tension, focusing on
God’s character can enable us to embody compassion
and care for all. In short and long-range planning
sessions, we can offer opportunities for all members
of the team to be valued and included. Consciously
employ this character trait. See how trust and team-
identity will flourish.
Never walk away from someone who deserves help; your
hand is God’s hand for that person.
—Proverbs 3:27
Actions displaying compassion can bolster resil-
ience. Waiting behind me in line at the ID Card sec-
tion was a pressured spouse, worried that her lateness
would risk losing an appointment. “That’s all right,
honey,” was the receptionist’s pleasant response. As
she directed the family member to the correct office,
I felt energized. Observing one person’s thoughtful-
ness uplifted my spirits.
Through care, concern and kindness we are
privileged to reach out to others. God’s Spirit can
empower us to be His healing hand—tender and gen-
erous while strong and powerful—to those near us.
Affirm others through your positive tone of voice
and facial expression. Be that person from whom
others draw vitality and resolve. In the process, your
resilience will flourish.
15 Forward Observers 16 God’s Hand for Others

11. 17 18
The generous hand of our God was on us, and they
brought back to us a wise man....
—Ezra 8:18
Our Political Advisor (POLAD) in Operation En-
during Freedom was a man to be admired. He was
articulate, genuine and insightful. Though supervi-
sor of other POLADs from the State Department,
he stepped in to fill a four-month underlap on the
Combined Joint Task Force 180 staff.
His emotional balance, ability to process “hot”
information and capacity to communicate what we
needed to hear commanded our highest respect. The
“generous hand of God” was truly upon us.
We can be that kind of wise person as well, aware
of our motives, emotions and the feelings of oth-
ers. God’s gracious presence, available through His
Spirit, can assist. Clear-headed wisdom for family,
team or operational issues can be ours.
When feeling clueless and lacking insight, stop
and center yourself. Seek divine understanding.
Analyze “war game” solutions. Realize that, with
God’s steady presence, good judgment, balance and
wisdom can be yours.
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to
figure out everything on your own.
—Proverbs 3:5
Rock-solid, Soldier-focused, tough-minded. Words
like these are often used to describe Command Ser-
geant Majors (CSMs). During combat deployments
and stateside postings, I’ve received inspiration,
strength and calm from these senior leaders who
serve in a unit’s highest enlisted position. When I
was feeling isolated or alone, their consistent, uplift-
ing presence re-connected and energized me.
In decisions and responsibilities awaiting you,
heed the Scripture’s advice: “Don’t try to figure out
everything on your own.” Trust God, and then enlist
the insight of others—like CSMs, squad or platoon
leaders, valued friends, staff associates, spiritual
mentors. Benefit from the strength shared and lead-
ership willingly offered by so many.
Go forward, transformed and retooled, confident
in God’s power. Be buoyed up by the good sense of-
fered by respected leaders around you.
17 Steady and Secure 18 Rock-Solid Leaders

12. 19 20
No need to panic over alarms or surprises, or predictions
that doomsday’s just around the corner, because God will
be right there with you; he’ll keep you safe and sound.
—Proverbs 3:25-26
A 10-day Battle Command Warfighter Exercise, held
under field conditions, prepared our Division for the
shocks and strains of combat. Temperatures reached
minus-20 degrees. Battle-simulated computer-driven
events, designated to jar and confuse, stretched com-
manders and staff. In the process, our procedures
matured. We learned a lot.
The jolts and traumas of life can stun and unsettle
us. Initial reactive responses can numb and baffle.
Panic often ensues. Yet God’s protective presence
offers us levelheaded assurance.
Calm and focus racing thoughts. Control your
breathing. Inhale the power of God’s Spirit; breathe
out intrusive, negative, alarmed thoughts. Remain
safe and sound, being supported by God’s steady
presence.
Don’t lose your grip on Love and Loyalty.
—Proverbs 3:3
Strong, positive friendships can add bounce to our
steps no matter what the strain or celebration.
Whether during a tough, extended deployment,
a strenuous “short suspense” project or single-par-
enting small children while your spouse is overseas,
we all benefit from genuine friends who keep our
confidences and boost our resiliency.
God’s love fuels and moves us to love others. A
simple “how are you doing?” by a trusted comrade-
in-arms can reassure and strengthen.
Forge strengthened bonds of courage and accep-
tance. Invest in a few “lingering moments” with a
trusted friend. Renew now your “grip on God’s love
and loyalty” to better connect with and befriend
others today.
19 Safe and Sound 20 Genuine Friends

13. 21 22
So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last
forever. It won’t be long before this generous God... will
have you put together and on your feet for good.
—1 Peter 5:10
“Bounce back” was a motto American POWs in Viet-
nam used with each other after undergoing harsh
interrogation sessions. Torture-induced confessions
gave rise to feelings of defeat and shame. To “bounce
back” was to let go of beaten-down outlooks. It en-
couraged resilience before the next round of brutal
questioning.
Too often we are burdened. We carry around the
heavy weight of the past. Negative memories intrude,
clouding and draining our spirits, sapping resilience.
God knows and feels what we’ve gone through.
His compassion and tenderness can hearten and en-
courage us. He delights in offering us new chances,
free of the troubled pressures of the past.
Take charge of negative, intrusive feelings. Grip
tightly the Lord’s generous offer of His presence.
“Bounce back” with renewed faith and confidence.
Your faith is growing phenomenally; your love for each
other is developing wonderfully.
—2 Thessalonians 1:3
The confident Sergeant Major was stationed at a
mature combat-theater support base. In the ups-
and-downs of a lengthy deployment, a key to her
tempered, dynamic disposition was mastering new
skills. Three-day-per-week group physical training
sessions provided new exercise challenges. Periodic
woodshop instruction resulted in professional-quali-
ty hardwood cutting board gifts. The Sergeant Major
was a life-long learner.
Whether formally or on our own, we can gain
new understanding and abilities. In the spiritual
arena, a new pattern of prayer, Scripture study or in-
depth reading can grow our faith. In the workplace,
concentration on the latest information technology
application can expand our capabilities.
Replace inactivity and sluggishness with new pos-
sibilities. Employ this resilience-builder to remain
fresh and alive.
21 Divine Generosity 22 Maintaining a Fresh Edge

14. 23 24
Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for
I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll
hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.
—Isaiah 41:10
A Marine at Walter Reed Army Medical Center
adjusting his prosthetic legs as his wife and year-
and-a-half-old son offer quiet encouragement; the
spouse whose calm determination is so evident at a
memorial service for her Soldier husband; parents
and Family members who express serene gratitude
for the service of their son killed in action—these
faces of strength give concrete form to character
traits of bravery, persistence, vitality. For so many,
God’s power is a constant source of help.
When your reserves of determination, persever-
ance and positive energy seem drained, boost your
resilience. Gain strength from the example of these
patriots.
Be grateful for the privilege of knowing such citi-
zens. Continue with prayers for Families and friends
of those wounded or lost in combat. And, be inspired.
Our mighty God holds us all in His steady, firm grip.
Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin,
forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments
for yourself.
—Galatians 6:1
He was an extremely hard-working, exceptionally
competent Executive Officer for our newly-formed
Infantry Battalion. Yet what I remember most about
this leader were his words to us staff members the
day after an uncharacteristic, negative display of
irritation and anger. “Forgive me for my outburst
yesterday. I failed to act like the officer I should be.”
What a lesson he taught me by asking for for-
giveness! We all deserve a second chance. The
compassion and merciful care shown to us frees us
from resentments, harmful memories and grudges.
Because God is so generous to us, we forgive those
who’ve done us wrong. We can treat respectfully the
shortcomings in others—and ourselves.
God-honoring servants are big-hearted. They’re
free of the burdens and resentments of the past. Em-
brace God’s tenderhearted kindness. Be gracious and
forgiving to build highly resilient teams.
23 Faces of Strength 24 Let It Go

15. 25 26
Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It’s the way you live,
not the way you talk, that counts.
—James 3:13
The term “Quiet Professionals” could be applied to
members of the Special Forces community. These
small, multi-disciplinary teams operate “under the
radar” to accomplish missions. They do not “toot
their own horn,” but possess keep-in-the-back-
ground spirits.
Whether we serve in office cubicles, factory
floors, combat outposts or stateside homes, we can
demonstrate calm assurance based on our God-given
identity. Being His servants, secure by means of His
grace, frees us from arrogant, prideful, self-promot-
ing attitudes and actions.
Humility is an inner state that welcomes accurate
personal assessment. We can be non-defensive with
constructive criticism; acknowledge our strengths
and limitations knowing we are directly connected
to God’s unselfish, enlivening Spirit.
Experience anew this day God’s silent, person-
affirming strength. Live humbly. Live well.
On seeing [the believers], Paul thanked God and took
courage.
—Acts 28:15 (NRSV)
The durable, long-lasting, TA-50 (parachute) cord
“Ranger Rosaries” are hard to keep in stock. De-
ployed and garrison-based personnel willingly take
up these devotional aides from chaplaincy display
racks. They’re prayerfully made by Sisters and
friends in a Maryland parish.
The rosaries symbolize the teamwork and support
we enjoy as members of the Department of Defense.
We are privileged to be part of a greater team. God’s
people uphold us in prayer, greet us in airports, send
us “care packages” in combat zones.
When feeling energy-sapped, drained or weak-
hearted, fortify your real-time resilience. Take cour-
age. Realize that friends can help re-fuel us. Rely on
God’s power, available through His people.
25 Quiet Professionals 26 Taking Heart

16. 27 28
Take the old prophets as your mentors. They put up with
anything, went through everything, and never once quit,
all the time honoring God. What a gift life is to those
who stay the course!
—James 5:10
The halls of military headquarters are lined with
pictures of past unit leaders. Current commanders
take heart from the photos. Struggles and difficul-
ties experienced by leaders who have gone before
put complex, unpredictable present-day worries in
perspective. These tangible memories can fortify
resolve and confidence.
We all face challenges. Setbacks and hardships
can threaten to overwhelm us. Yet God gives reason
to prevail. We can hold fast and remain true. The
resolute examples of those who have gone before can
inspire and restore our passion. The witness of day-
in and day-out faithfulness and pursuit of excellence
can fortify weary spirits.
Respond productively when tough circumstances
arise. With steady, step-by-step, one-foot-in-front-of-
the-other resolve, we can “do the next thing” empow-
ered by God’s Spirit and encouraged by predecessors
who’ve stayed the course.
Their God will save the day. He’ll rescue them. They’ll
become like... gemstones in a crown, catching all the
colors of the sun.
—Zechariah 9:16
Purpose, secure faith, uplifting presence—the In-
fantry Battalion commander, whose Soldiers were
assigned to difficult Afghanistan combat missions,
was gifted with these spiritual assets. Whether at-
tending stateside Mass or “leading from the front”
in harsh, unyielding fighting conditions, his sturdy
appearance radiated God’s presence.
The Lord provides us firm ground on which to
stand. Fleeting feelings of spiritual emptiness, of
living without roots, can be removed by His readily
available power.
Assess your spiritual condition: Do my prayer life,
devotional reading, Scripture study, shared worship
and service outreach thrive? Glow with the dignity
of God’s Spirit. Experience His quiet contentment
this day.
27 Steadfast Resolve 28 Spiritual Assessment

17. 29 30
Observe people who are good at their work—skilled
workers are always in demand and admired; they don’t
take a backseat to anyone.
—Proverbs 22:29
The blocks of wood portrayed five HUMMWVs. The
squad leader, a Military Police Sergeant, led our mis-
sion rehearsal with competent, thorough precision.
Color-coded lead and trail vehicles reinforced the
verbal guidance.
While I had been on many Bagram to Camp Phoe-
nix (Kabul) convoys before, never had I witnessed
such a detailed briefing. The good Sergeant’s direc-
tions were excellent.
Our Creator God empowers us in both the routine
and uncommon tasks of our days. We do not have to
plod along with unimaginative work habits and solu-
tions. Rather, we can be a rich blessing to others. We
can celebrate our callings.
Respond to challenges and leadership opportu-
nities with variety and innovation. Reflect God’s
imaginative grace. Employ this dynamic strength
of character. Your resilience and that of your team-
mates will be reinforced.
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by
filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble,
reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious —the best, not
the worst....
—Philippians 4:8
The blowing afternoon dust constricted our breath.
The searing heat sapped energy. Yet the lone petro-
leum specialist on the far side of Bagram, Afghani-
stan’s Airfield, possessed enthusiasm, vitality and
life. This fuel handler’s grimy handshake remains an
inspiration, his spirited commitment and dedication
to excellence a wonderful memory.
Be mindful and alert to goodness around you. Ap-
preciate extraordinary work done by teammates and
associates. Focus on the finer things and moments
of your day.
Meditate on things excellent and noble. Receive
God’s blessings no matter what the circumstance.
29 Be Your (Very!) Best 30 Focusing on the Best

18. 31
Dear friend, guard Clear Thinking and Common Sense
with your life; don’t for a minute lose sight of them.
—Proverbs 3:21
The Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) is
an effective planning tool. MDMP training guid-
ance from our Division Chief of Staff directed us to
include a “here’s what others are saying...” section
on the issue at hand. “Be broad-minded... flexible...
consider what the other side is saying. ” Great advice
from the Chief.
We can tackle problems thoughtfully and thor-
oughly. We can avoid narrow, impulsive, rigid “my
way or the highway” thinking traps.
God’s wisdom is readily available for the perplex-
ing decisions we face. His Spirit guides us. Sound
judgment, accurate thinking, and receptive under-
standing can be ours. Prayerfully open your thought
processes to His direction and control. God’s expan-
sive perspective will be yours.
31 Clear Thinking
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