A Challenge to Chaplain Ministry (Joshua 1:9)

I fully attended to point to a passage in Romans 8 this morning,

But then I was writing a letter to my kids in which I challenged them to strong and brave for what God wants in there life.

Helping mom.

Being nice to one another.

Spending time praying and reading.

I just wanted to encourage them to be tenacious about the things of God, while daddy was away.

But then it occurred to me … I need to be tenacious about the ministry God has lead me too.

We each probably have a story about how God lead us to this point, and the great thing about starting out in something new … is the slate is clean.

I have not formed any good Chaplain habits yet, but I haven’t formed any bad habits either.

The slate is clean.

And the context here fits really well

- God is calling Joshua to take up where Moses left off.

And God gives him so really encouraging words.

Because of Joshua’s place in Israel’s history, he will have to lead Israel into battle against enemies who stronger than they are.

And at the same time … human nature is always present … threatening to derail them from what God has called them too.

The Battle of AI will make it really clear just how easy it would be for Israel to forget the things of God.

These are the words given to a person who must be both a warrior and a spiritual leader.

That’s just like us.

So may I challenge us - to learn from God’s encouragement to Joshua.

Joshua 1:9 ESV

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.”

What can we learn about Chaplaincy from God’s Words to Joshau - the military and spiritual leader of Israel.

As Chaplains - we ought

(a) Be Strong

Joshua was told to be strong.

And if you take some time to study the words strong and courageous, you will that they mean nearly the same.

If there is a difference, that knowledge has been lost to time.

Both have aspects of being courageous and brave, but both also emphasize strength and might.

So I also and equally would say - we must be

(b) Courageous

>>>>>> So now let me open this up to all of us?

What does it meant to be strong and courageous in Chaplaincy?

Everyday Faithfulness

Willingness to be in harms way.

Willingness to do what is right or say what is right, even when we face opposition.

Willingness to risk our careers and livelihood -

whether that is standing a doctrinal position in our provision,

or standing our ground for sailors who need an advocate, or care.

And in my opinion - this means being tenacious about it. As the CNO suggests, we have certain toughness to our leadership.

But lets draw this out a little more?

I would suggest that we are to be brave and courageous - about the

(c) The Things of God.

Preceding context shows Joshua being encouraged to meditate and live out the word of God.

The context suggests the challenge to lead Israel in the conquest.

And the context suggests Joshua had the responsibility of being the Spiritual leader as well.

In light of that - What was Joshua called to be Strong and courageous for?

The things of God.

So I turn it back to you - How are we to be strong and courageous as Chaplains?

The reality is our place at the table is not because we are experts in victim advocacy, Casuality assistance, Psychotherapy, or military leadership.

Our place at the table … is has Spiritual leaders.

As Cross bearers- We have a place at the table because we are shepherds of the Cross.

So what should we as Chaplains be strong and courageous about?

What should what should we be tenacious about?

Carrying the Gospel into every opportunity we have … advisement, soul care, deployments, … even PT.

In every way … may we be brave and strong for the things of God.

But there is one other aspect I want to mention from Joshua 1:9 - Where was Joshua to get his strength?

Joshua 1:9 ESV

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.”

Oh there is so much to be said about the presence of God and what that means.

Abraham (Yesterday)

Burning Bush

Jesus said in the great commission he will always be with us (Matthew 28:19-20)

But as Chaplains - we are strong and brave because we

(d) Rest in the presence of God.

It has often been said … that the best messages come out of your own devotions.

Today I share a passage that challenged me … And I hope it challenges you.

I am not sure how many times young baby Chaplain I will have to speak to my fellow chaplains.

And so I may challenge us - as we are learning,

Let’s Be strong and courageous - for the things of God, while resting in the very presence of God.

Let’s go be tenacious Cross bearers, who gain our strength from the person we proclaim - Christ.