Log Entry: Lessons Learned Part One

Since I am still in the states, I thought I would post a few more entries. This one is the first of a series of "Lessons Learned" while undergoing pre-deployment training.

• The Safest Place in the World is in the Center of God’s Will

This was made clear to me when I first found out I was going to Iraq. Of course I was somewhat apprehensive. It was soon after this that I read Psalm 91 and became aware of God’s protection as we serve Him according to His perfect will. Of particular comfort were verses 5 through 8 which read as follows:

Psa 91:5 – 8 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

I realized at once that I would be safer in the midst of battle (not that I wish to be there) if it were God’s will than I would be in the comfort of home, if that was not where I should be!

• Learning to Work Individually, Yet as Part of a Team

Gal 6:2-5 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden.

In our initial training, it is crucial that we learn, early on, that we do not live in a vacuum and that others can be greatly affected by our actions. Yes we are responsible for our own actions, but our actions also should be aimed at helping those with whom we interact. Teamwork means also looking out for and helping others achieve both individual and team goals.

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Until next time mates, Fair Winds and Following Seas.

Cork (The Desert Squid)