Daily Devotional

I am a military veteran. A Navy veteran. A Vietnam War veteran.

On November 17, 1971, the very day I left for home after serving on active naval service, I trusted in Jesus Christ alone for my salvation. On that day I became a Soldier of the Cross and, without really understanding it at the time, a Minister of the Gospel. My standing orders have been clear for over fifty years.

I love the words of the song:

I pledge allegiance to the Lamb,
With all my strength,
With all I am.
I will seek to honor His commands.
I pledge allegiance to the Lamb.
(Shepherd Boy Music, Word Music, LLC.)

“My Christian Oath of Enlistment is Dear to My Heart.”

Based on 2 Timothy 2:1–4:

• I will be strong in the grace and mercy found in Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:1)
  
  
• I will learn from past generations of disciples and prepare the next generation of faithful and Skilled Helpers to do the same (2 Timothy 2:2).
  
  
• I will willingly suffer hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:3).
  
  
• I will keep my focus on Jesus and not get entangled in the affairs of everyday life (2 Timothy 2:4).
  
  
• I will have as my life goal to please the One who is my Commanding Officer and enlisted me as a Soldier of the Cross (2 Timothy 2:4).

In other words, “I am a Soldier in the Army of My God.” Will you stand with me?

New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.