Mission FirstSample

I will always place the mission first

“I will always place the mission first” is the 4th declaration in the Soldier’s Creed. When I was an active-duty soldier in the United States Army, I learned to always place the mission first. I carried this mindset into motherhood and my faith life.

In the army, placing the mission first means that soldiers must lay aside personal motives, plans, or agendas while serving. Advancing the United States’ national interest must be the soldier’s top priority. The Bible describes Christians as soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3-4) and “I will always place the mission first” is a mindset and commitment God expects from those who serve him. God wants us to prioritize his agenda, to always be at his service, and lay aside personal motives as soldiers of Christ.

John 3:16, Matthew 28:19-20, and 2 Peter 3:9 reveal that the salvation of souls is dear to God’s heart. God wants more souls in his kingdom. Consequently, those who believe in Jesus- soldiers of Christ should focus on evangelism, making disciples, or fishing for souls. Motherhood presents unique opportunities for Christian women to fulfill the great commission in Matthew 28:19-20 which says:

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Motherhood is a position of great influence. Mothering presents an opportunity for us to care for the spirit, soul, and body of our children, and leave a legacy of intergenerational faith. Since children learn what they live, they can learn what Christianity truly means from us. We can model what a relationship with God looks like to our children. 

2 Timothy 1:5 mentions two women- Timothy’s mother and his grandmother. These women modeled faith so much it became contagious, Timothy caught it. Their faith in God was genuine, authentic, deep, and wholehearted. They practiced what they taught Timothy and their faith in Christ was not for show. 

I believe these mothers were mentioned as examples for us. They were mentioned to let us know it is possible for us to live a contagious life of faith. The way we do life as Christian mothers should be so appealing; it should compel our children to desire a walk with God. This is one way to make disciples of our children regardless of the season or phase of motherhood.

Do not underestimate your mothering influence. You are an influencer and kingdom builder! You do not need a big pulpit or ministry to get started with evangelism. Discipleship can start in your home.