Understanding Sacrifice Brings Resiliency

“But I was planning on _________!”

Oh, how the Military expects us to change on a dime! With seemingly no regard for our plans, it throws us all kinds of unexpected orders: PCSs, training exercises, deployments, extra duty, temporary duty, late nights . . . “Semper Gumby!” the Marines quip, “Always flexible!”

But change is not easy for many, especially children. Letting go of expectations can really hurt when it means Dad misses the game or the family must move before the recital. Unmet hopes can cause resentment and frustration and leave us unable to move forward.

So, since our expectations can’t always be met, how can we best manage them? While we need to keep our desires in check, we can’t just not have any. But what can help us cope with broken hopes and stay resilient is believing in the cause. If we can see beyond our disappointment and the hardships we often face, to the greater purpose of our Military calling, we can more easily accept whatever comes our way.

However, the cause of serving in the Military, even for love of country, can seem vague and flimsy at times. Leadership and service are often not fair, and sometimes the sacrifices asked of the family should be questioned. But giving yourself and your family to the work the Lord has for you is always worth the sacrifice.

Whatever you say or do should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks to God the Father because of him.

Colossians 3:17 (CEV)

When we are certain that our work is for the Lord, we can give of ourselves more willingly knowing that our life is a sacrifice for him.

And when we teach our kids the bigger perspective—that this lifestyle has an impact beyond their disappointment, and that their life is to be lived for God’s greater purpose—it gives meaning to the suffering. They will be able to rebound more quickly when they trust God to control what feels so out of control. And they will learn an important perspective of selfless service to both God and man.

PRAY

Oh Lord, sometimes the sacrifice really hurts, especially when it affects my children. Help us to do everything for you. We will trust you. Amen.

TIME TO TALK

Conversation starter for kids: Provides you with questions and prompts to facilitate a time of applicable discussion with children to lead them towards knowing God and His Word more deeply.

Questions: How can we help other people when our warrior is deployed? How have other people helped us?

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help parents expand their Scriptural knowledge and place on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Swipe to read the passages today.

Colossians 3:17

Joshua 24:15

Luke 17:7-10