Working at the National Association of American Veterans, Inc. (NAAV) has been a life-changing experience for me. I’ve faced many challenges, some good, and some are hard to explain. I stand in amazement at the thought of where I would be if the Lord had not been with me. I often sit at my desk and think about the many wonderful blessings of the Lord. I’ve had many challenges the past twelve years to overcome. Losing my beloved mother was one of the most, I felt, unbearable times of my life. I am also very grateful to say that we have a living and awesome God who picked me up and kept me focused on reaching out and helping others most in need. At times, I am remained of John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” When I read this verse, my heart goes to the service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we have today.
I also think of what it must have been like for God to see His Son suffer for us on the cross. I want to encourage all family members who have lost loved ones to wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and prior wars that whatever obstacles you may be facing, to continue to “Walk with the Lord” and count it all joy! “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:2-3 NKJV).
Scripture Verses (NKJV)
Romans 5:3-6 “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulations produce perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For when were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.”
Psalm 119:11, 16 “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” “I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.”
Proverbs 30:5 “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.”
John 17:17
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”
Prayer:
Lord, You are always with me. Thank you for never leaving my side, even for a moment. Thank you for giving me another day of life; let me celebrate this day by giving glory to Your name and by praying for others in critical need. Help me to read Your holy Word daily according to Your perfect and complete will. Please enable me to live each moment to the fullest, totally committed to Your will. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
All Scripture verses are taken from the New King James Version of the Bible.
By Constance A. Burns, NAAV Contributor for Moments of Mediation and Spiritual Readings: email: cburns@naavets.org