An Army Ranger knows to show up at the “right place,” at the “right time,” and in the “right uniform.” As a highly-trained elite warrior, he pays attention to the smallest details; each and every one of them. Though he has executed hundreds of missions just like this one, he prepares still for the one at-hand. Risks are mitigated. Success is ensured.
Until the end, he’ll be prepared.
Three sentences from the Ranger Creed summarizes well the spirit of these warriors: “Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well-trained Soldier…Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might.”
It was a humbling honor to stand shoulder to shoulder with my brothers-in-arms. In combat, we strove to be always prepared: “In Omnia Paratus,” or “In All Things Prepared,” as the motto of the 18th Infantry Regiment states.
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Combat rages all around us. The battle of good versus evil? It’s a very real thing!
In spiritual combat, is it our goal to be always prepared? To “gallantly show we are specially selected and well-trained”? To “energetically meet the enemies of our Lord”?
It’s alarming to me when my brothers- and sisters-in-arms seem so unprepared to wage the war that is all around us. The Evil One is roaming our terrain, seeking to devour your soul. Sometimes, we can see him, in a head-on, full frontal assault. Other times, he’s less visible, in a flanking, surprise assault. Be prepared in all things!
Stay alert! We need you on the field of battle. There are holes in the formation.
Show up at the right time and the right place – to help a brother or sister, to fight for them. Show up to fight for yourself; for your family. Be in the right uniform. Clothed in the full armor of God (Ephesians 6).
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Exodus 15:3: “The Lord is a warrior. The Lord is His name.”
Psalm 18:39: “For You have girded me with strength for battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.”
1 John 5:4: “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
Be Strong & Courageous! 