Hope in Hard PlacesSýnishorn

When Military Children Suffer

Being part of a military family often means witnessing our children navigate challenges due to a parent's service. In this reality, suffering becomes intricately linked with hope, a connection a powerful biblical truth underscores.

When the worry creeps in....

As an Army wife and devout follower of Christ, my journey has taught me the profound significance of suffering. While I despised it then, looking back, I see how every trial points to hope in God's glory. Although the term "suffer" still makes me cringe, I've reconciled with its necessity, understanding its role in my sanctification process.

Yet, when I contemplate military life and its intersection with hope and suffering, I grapple with the idea of this destiny for my sons. Often, I catch myself praying or thinking, "God, let me suffer, but not my kids." I wish to shield them from the trials of growing up in the military—periods of separation, distance from extended family, the perpetual new-kid status, constant relocations, and confronting the unknown.

We can lean on Jesus

I've learned to redirect my thoughts, guided by Philippians 4:8: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Recently, my heart has oscillated between excitement for my husband's opportunities and concerns about the unknown future my kids will face in the next phase of military life. During a car ride home from youth group, my oldest son shared insights into the challenging life lessons his friends were undergoing. Despite the difficulties, he articulated, "You know, I miss everyone in my old school, but sometimes I'm glad that God took me out of that school so that I wasn't influenced, too."

It struck me—suffering leads to hope.

My 12-and-a-half-year-old exhibited discernment beyond his years. Moving and facing challenges led to his development of dependence on God, a process I could never orchestrate for him. I've realized that wishing away suffering for my children means wishing away God's hope. I never want to forfeit God's hope for them.

Adapted from a Planting Roots Article by Stephanie Ward.