Welcome to the Chaplain’s Corner

June 2019

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

When I think of courage, it reminds me of the Navy and Marine Corps core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment; and the Coast Guard of Honor, Respect and Devotion to Duty.   We as military members live out our core values daily without even giving it a second thought.  However, in our personal lives and relationships, how often do we exhibit courage?  Are we able to have the courage to walk away from toxic relationships and friendships? Do we have the courage to accept the person who God has created us to be? Are we willing to have the courage to further our education or achieve new set goals?

Courage is defined as by Webster dictionary as “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” It is amazing how we can rise to the challenge of protecting our country, but we often find ourselves hesitating or second guessing ourselves regarding the mental and moral strength to succeed in our personal lives. The same commitment we have made to our core values; we can also have in our personal lives.

Even though this scripture text was referring to Joshua as he was to lead the Israelites into the land of promise; it can be applied to our lives today.  The same God, who was with Joshua, is also with us. Once we realize our greatest potential then we will not settle and be open to God’s very best for our lives.  We have more than enough courage not to only be successful as military members but also successful in all that we do.  Remember courage is more than just a core value; it is who God said we are to be.

Blessings,

Reverend Takana L. Jefferson, Chaplain, United States Navy