Step-by-Step: A Veteran’s New Mission on CampusSample

The Perspective Step

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Can you relate to this command from God to Joshua as he faced leading the Israelite nation in reclaiming the promised land? After all, as a member of the military, you were familiar with commands when confronting new challenges. You were called on to show strength and courage despite your negative emotions.

How often has the truth of God's words to Joshua, "the LORD your God is with you wherever you go," allowed you to abandon emotions of fright or dismay? Just as God was ever-present with you in your years of military training and throughout every assignment, He promises to be with you now. Remind yourself that His presence allows you to face new academic challenges with strength and courage.

From your familiar perspective of God’s presence, what do you bring to this unfamiliar campus? You bring more than skill in handling weapons of war. You bring experience and maturity in how to handle yourself under life-or-death circumstances. Staff, faculty, and other students can observe and grow from your example as you model lessons learned from military service.

Trust in the truth of God’s presence today, and your first step onto campus will be the start of a new adventure and mission.

“So do not fear, for I am with you …” (Isaiah 41:10).

Question to Ponder: God led you in the past. In what ways can you sense Him leading you now?