Leader, Draw Near

Today's Scripture reading comes from Luke 22:32, quoting from the NASB:

"But I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers."

When all seems against you and you are hard pressed to get others to perform at a higher standard, what do you do?

The cross looming large before Him, Jesus, perhaps, had a similar concern. What was His approach to changing complacency, shallow commitment, and naïve vulnerability? Prayer!

Anyone who chooses to follow Jesus' path will be a clear and discernible target of Satan. Simon did not realize the target he had become. He also could not imagine that he would abandon Jesus out of fear for his personal comfort or loss of life. When pushed to hold to the integrity he professed, Peter would cave. Jesus prayed that on the other side of his failure Peter would turn towards the lessons he learned and be an encouragement to his brothers.

Often in difficulties, it is hard to believe that anything worthwhile lies on the other side of disobedience, dereliction, self-satisfaction, or marginal commitment. Jesus desired that passion for service be ignited in His followers. So how does one stimulate fervor for service in a person who is oblivious to the greater good or bigger picture? Within ourselves, we cannot.

I consider inspiration to be a "God breathed" phenomena. However, we can intercede for others and credit God for answering our prayer on another's behalf. Peter did not understand failure until he publicly denied Jesus. He would only become an encouraging example for his brothers because of Jesus' prayers for him.

For many, the backside of disobedience, waywardness, and complacency is ruin and disappointment. Sometimes, no words or warnings will deter a person from doing the wrong thing. Jesus did not attempt to dissuade Simon from his approaching denial.

Consider that our leadership role is not always one of preventing another from his determined path. In some cases, the correction or consequence that follows will have the greater impact on a person's decision to walk with integrity. Jesus modeled the classic response to develop passion in others. Pray.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor

1. First, desire for greatness or prominence must be tempered with a servant's heart.
2. Second, prayer should be the foundation of our concern for others.
3. Third, failure need not equate to disqualification from the cause nor interpreted as an inability to help and encourage others.

// About the Narrator

An Army ROTC grad from Tennessee Tech University, serving both on active duty and in the reserves, Lucy is a retired U.S. Army Reserve LTC and works for the Army's 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, KY. She and her husband, Greg, are OCF Associate Field Staff for ROTC and are involved with local OCF Bible Studies on the local college campus and at Fort Campbell. Lucy accepted Christ as Savior in high school and is growing to let Him be Lord in every area of life.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Ezekiel 24:18, quoting from the NASB:

"So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. And in the morning I did as I was commanded."

How hard is it to be stripped of one's most valued possession and be denied grieving rights? God's relationship with his prophets often defied comprehension. Using them as object lessons in some instances, He asked them to consider obedience of greater importance than even their personal lives. Ezekiel's commitment and obedience to God are highlighted in a most provocative way.

The prophet was to know in advance that his wife would die that day and was to refrain from mourning her. What a struggle it would be to perform one's duties following a spouse's demise without betraying the emotion of loss for the one who was "his great delight." What did God want from Ezekiel? Could God's response to the declaration of Samaria and Jerusalem's adultery and idolatry not be portrayed in a less intrusive manner?

Much can be learned from Ezekiel's response. He did not question or bargain with God. Why? Ezekiel was convinced of God's preeminence in much the same way as Abraham who declared of God, "He can raise him from the dead," when he lifted the knife to take Isaac's life.

To Ezekiel, God's preeminence—his first place in judging, offering up for destruction, or extending mercy—did not diminish at the door of personal sacrifice. He was the Lord's prophet, accustomed to knowing God's mind and will for the people before the events took place. He had pledged faithful service and determined to get to the end of his service with his integrity in tact. After all, the message he delivered would be compromised by a lesser commitment.

The people prized the temple and its activity over the Lord Himself, and God was preparing to strip it away from them. Their lack of regard for His holiness flew in the face of His jealous claim on the whole heart of the people.

In what ways do we demonstrate this same carelessness? What gives you greater delight—loyalty to a program, an institution, a promotion, or obedience to God? God has not asked for the sacrifice of the family or called for slackness on the job as demonstration of commitment to Him. God took Ezekiel's wife as a sign of the reverence and obedience He required of His people. God wants the acknowledged, preeminent position in each of our lives.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, is there "a delight" in your life that surpasses your reverence for God?
2. Second, has the work of your hands become your sanctuary, full of pride and desire?
3. Third, are you able to let go of the temporal for the eternal good God wants to perform through you?

// About the Narrator

An Army ROTC grad from Tennessee Tech University, serving both on active duty and in the reserves, Lucy is a retired U.S. Army Reserve LTC and works for the Army's 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, KY. She and her husband, Greg, are OCF Associate Field Staff for ROTC and are involved with local OCF Bible Studies on the local college campus and at Fort Campbell. Lucy accepted Christ as Savior in high school and is growing to let Him be Lord in every area of life.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from 1 Chronicles 21:1, quoting from the NASB:

"Then Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number Israel."

Have you ever been checked in your spirit to rectify an ill-advised decision that disregarded unintended consequences, but you pushed ahead with it anyway? I know I have, and so did David. In spite of rational counsel by David's most trusted leader and warrior, David did not change his decision to conduct a census to determine the number of Israelite citizens under his leadership. David's action was not only displeasing to Joab, but it also displeased God.

When you know you have created a mess, how do you reverse it? Here's an answer—follow David's example. Humble yourself, repent, and submit to God. When forcing a short sighted decision, perhaps what is really happening is the lust of the flesh rebelling against the divine promptings of the Holy Spirit's guidance: "Your ears will hear a word behind you, 'This is the way, walk in it,' whenever you turn to the right or to the left."

Most decisions have consequences, and David was in great distress over the unintended consequences his decision had brought on his nation. His foolish actions resulted in 70,000 slain and created the real possibility of additional death and destruction had the Lord not halted the full consequences. David repented of his sin and appealed to God for mercy.

Does David's rash act resonate with you? Have you made an error in judgment by insisting things go your way? Perhaps you are presently in the midst of unintended consequences from a rash decision. If so, follow David's example.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, humbly admit your sin and take responsibility for the role you played.
2. Second, commend and trust yourself to the hands of a merciful God who is concerned for you and for those He has entrusted to you.
3. Third, adjust your course and get back on track with the heart of a servant leader, putting the needs of others ahead of your own.

// About the Narrator

An Army ROTC grad from Tennessee Tech University, serving both on active duty and in the reserves, Lucy is a retired U.S. Army Reserve LTC and works for the Army's 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, KY. She and her husband, Greg, are OCF Associate Field Staff for ROTC and are involved with local OCF Bible Studies on the local college campus and at Fort Campbell. Lucy accepted Christ as Savior in high school and is growing to let Him be Lord in every area of life.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Matthew 6:14-15, quoting from the NASB:

"For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions."

Forgiveness is a choice. If my spouse does something that offends me, I can decide to be hurt, to rehearse the offense in my mind and to allow frustration, anger, and unforgiveness to set in. Conversely, if I keep my wits about me and follow Jesus' instructions, I will choose to forgive and move on.

Peter asked, "How often should I forgive?" Not knowing to forgive is not the issue; choosing to forgive hits at the heart of the struggle. Jesus instructs us not to withhold forgiveness, but to freely forgive.

What about forgiveness in the workplace? Is forgiveness measured out by good or bad performance? Too many headlines read like this: Commander Jones was relieved of his duties because leaders lost confidence in his ability to effectively lead and perform assigned duties.

There is no question leaders have a responsibility to uphold workplace performance standards and maintain good order and discipline. Consequences properly follow violations, but Jesus' admonition to forgive also pertains to workplace justice. Marginalizing or devaluing one who has erred or denying such a one a path to restoration of workplace fellowship is not Christ's brand of forgiveness. Leadership fosters growth out of genuine value placed on each person.

It is best to let the mind of Christ guide workplace forgiveness and restoration acts. I almost erred by allowing a worker's prior disciplined misstep to determine whether I would hire this person. A decision not to hire her would have meant that a less qualified person would have been selected for the position. As I asked the person about her previous infraction, she said to me, "At some point someone has to give me a chance."

The fact is, she had suffered the consequences several times over for her mistake, and I was in a position to make her pay once more. Forgiveness is a life restoring, healing act, extended in obedience to Jesus' teachings and His examples. That hiring decision turned out to be one of my best actions as the worker became a highly responsible top performer.

Whether in a personal relationship or in the workplace, Jesus' admonition to forgive remains. As servant leaders, how we forgive and restore is a mark of obedience to Christ's commands.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, turn anger and hot emotions over to God as an expression of godly character and with an earnest desire for the best for others.
2. Second, do what God has instructed and trust Him for the results. Take every thought captive to the knowledge of Christ.
3. Third, exercise responsible leadership by maintaining good order and discipline but refrain from devaluing one who has come under discipline.

// Monthly Evaluation

It's time for a quick monthly evaluation. Click here to download the monthly reflection sheet. Use the reflection sheet to help gauge your habit of integrating faith and profession, and to help get you into the habit of keeping a written record of those times when the Holy Spirit speaks to you.

// About the Narrator

Tom Schmidt was raised in a family of nine on a dairy farm in Kansas. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, graduating in 1970 with a commission in the Infantry. He served for 25 years in command, staff, and instructor assignments, ranging from platoon to Department of the Army level. Tom and his wife, Jean, also served on OCF staff as Field Representative at Ft. Leavenworth and Director of Field Operations.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Deuteronomy 7:22, quoting from the NASB:

"The LORD your God will clear away these nations before you little by little; you will not be able to put an end to them quickly, for the wild beasts would grow too numerous for you."

Even if I want to accomplish something, if it is not God's will, I will not be able to do it. Why would the Lord not allow something that seems a good thing for His people? We most often only perceive what is in front of us, and our tendency is to make decisions based on what we see—the facts. God, on the other hand, has all wisdom, knowledge and understanding and acts according to our best interests, based on more than is apparent to mortal man.

The fact that God will act requires faith and trust on the part of those who look to Him for help. As we trust Him, faith and confidence develop—little by little as we wait with patience. God moves on behalf of those who trust Him. Gradually, the mustard seed germinates and develops into a thriving tree. Draconian actions can overwhelm and negate good intentions. Seeds need time to develop just as the enthusiasm of a new Christian should be channeled to outlets of sound spiritual development.

Little by little, in God's time He performs His purposes. Some leaders, thrust into positions of greater responsibility as a reward for a job well done, fizzle in their performance because they lack the wisdom that seasoning and time bring.

The route to success is through recognition of the One who is really creating the headway: "The LORD your God will." God does the heavy lifting. Joshua could not take credit for his victorious army; God fought for Israel. Our best plan should be to cooperate with God in recognition of our mortal limitations: "You will not be able to put an end to them quickly."

Is not our challenge to recognize there is more to matters than what is in front of us? God acts on behalf of those He loves, and He has a wonderful plan for us despite present circumstances.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

First, how are you demonstrating cooperation with God in leadership on the job or in the home?

Second, do you trust God to work all things for your good in His time?

Third, within our flesh, God's plans are hard to discern; through acts of trust and faith. We come to accept His intentions as good.

// About the Narrator

Tom Schmidt was raised in a family of nine on a dairy farm in Kansas. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, graduating in 1970 with a commission in the Infantry. He served for 25 years in command, staff, and instructor assignments, ranging from platoon to Department of the Army level. Tom and his wife, Jean, also served on OCF staff as Field Representative at Ft. Leavenworth and Director of Field Operations.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Nehemiah 6:3, quoting from the NASB:

"So I sent messengers to them, saying, 'I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?'"

Nehemiah was obviously a man of focus and commitment. It is tough enough working through the routine distractions of a day, not to mention distractions intended to intimidate. Nehemiah, an unknown newcomer, repeatedly responded with clear resolve not to be drawn or distracted from what he came to town to do, which was to rebuild Jerusalem's wall.

Distractions confront us all. Some distractions are a result of task saturation, simply piling more on our plates than we can reasonably handle. Yet other distractions have influence through other means, such as an unshared vision or fear and intimidation as in the case of Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem. Nehemiah models for us how to respond to distractions and intimidation. Five times Nehemiah refused to turn from what he was called to do. His focus was to complete the great work and not to delay its completion.

Most people (especially those in the military) can appreciate being the new kid on the block, but note how Nehemiah channels any fear, worry, and anxiety. He cried out and asked God to strengthen him. He took courage and resisted every ploy of his adversaries.

It is naive to think that the work we do in the Lord's name will be received with enthusiasm from everyone. How does one keep focus when distractions and discouragement come? Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Keep focus on the big picture and ask His help. Remind yourself that what you do is for His glory.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, lack of appreciation by others can lead to untruths about your real effort and motive. It is designed to halt a great work.
2. Second, pray about task saturation that can lead to fixation on the surroundings to the exclusion of the goal.
3. Third, fear and intimidation are a formidable duo. Rely on the sufficiency of God to equip you for the task.

Nehemiah and his team completed the wall in 52 days! Fear came upon those who attempted to produce fear in him. Distractions are designed to prevent the great work of God from being completed. Persevere. Have a mind to work. Stay on the wall.

// About the Narrator

Tom Schmidt was raised in a family of nine on a dairy farm in Kansas. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, graduating in 1970 with a commission in the Infantry. He served for 25 years in command, staff, and instructor assignments, ranging from platoon to Department of the Army level. Tom and his wife, Jean, also served on OCF staff as Field Representative at Ft. Leavenworth and Director of Field Operations.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Exodus 17:16, quoting from the NASB:

"And he said, 'The LORD has sworn; the LORD will have war against Amalek from generation to generation.'"

No one desires a persistent enemy. Anyone would be happy for the removal of an irritating thorn in the flesh or for the total eradication of a systemic office problem. The Amalekites may have been a persistent irritation to the Israelites, but who were they to God? They were not a formidable foe for the Lord. For Israel to be in recurring conflict with the Amalekites was certainly better for them than striving against them without the Lord. God's Word to Moses was that He would utterly destroy the Amalekites.

Literally and figuratively, God would be in the battle with Israel against their enemy. While Israel would have preferred a less belligerent journey toward the promised land, they would be comforted in God's faithful presence.

Do you find yourself in a persistently problematic circumstance? The leader's challenge usually does not end with conquest over one issue before another arrives. In fact, multiple, simultaneous issues often test a leader's prowess. Our response amid such circumstances should mark us as faithful followers of Christ. Moses availed himself of the help of Aaron and Hur in battling the Amalekites. Jesus accepted the help of Simon from Cyrene in carrying His cross when He was physically overwhelmed.

To whom do you turn for help and encouragement when facing a persistent issue?

The Amalekites were not Israel's only enemy, and with the destruction of the Amalekites, God did not cease to be Israel's "banner." The point is this: God does not abandon us in the face of weighty circumstances and pressures. Consider God's prevailing truth and rely on His presence during your times of need for deliverance from nagging circumstances.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, he gives strength for the battle and rewards courage and skill.
2. Second, he brings faithful people alongside us to help shoulder the burden of our circumstances. Will we strip off pride and accept offers of help?
3. Third, winning a battle does not mean the war is over. Are you confident in God's promise of His abiding presence as you fulfill your leadership responsibilities?

// About the Narrator

Tom Schmidt was raised in a family of nine on a dairy farm in Kansas. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, graduating in 1970 with a commission in the Infantry. He served for 25 years in command, staff, and instructor assignments, ranging from platoon to Department of the Army level. Tom and his wife, Jean, also served on OCF staff as Field Representative at Ft. Leavenworth and Director of Field Operations.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Ephesians 4:1-2, quoting from the NASB:

"Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love."

"Ready or not, here I come" announced the start of the hunt in the children's game "Hide and Seek."

I could not help but think of that phrase while contemplating Paul's exhortation for Christian unity to the believers in today's Scripture reading from Ephesians 4. Paul gives a prescription for unity among believers. His ingredients are straightforward: show humility, gentleness, patience, and tolerance through love.

Said another way, get along with one another and don't just fake it, show real love. This is how believers walk in a worthy manner. These are qualities true followers of Christ should display.

The challenge for the Christian leader is to live out godlike unity. Paul's instructions to the servant leader are clear as it relates to the workplace believer who is task saturated, the new apprentice, or the anxious co-worker. Show gentleness, be compassionate, and practice patience. It is one thing to practice these virtues with believers, but what about our attitude toward the non-believer? Are we to display acts of humility, gentleness, patience, and tolerance in love toward all people? Are you ready or not?

Today's cultural challenges require leadership that knows how to deal with recognition of same-sex marriage, the impacts of legalization of marijuana use, intimate partner violence episodes, workers whose financial irresponsibility keeps them in arrears in child support payments… just to name a few.

Tolerance for one another in love does not mean tolerance of all things. Rather, strive to be at peace with one another and speak truth in love in an effort to walk in a manner worthy of Christ's calling.

"Ready or Not" might be a call to maintain unity of spirit among believers, with a ready a response to help the lost, confused, and misdirected through repentance and renewal in Christ's love. The spiritual leader plants seeds of righteousness. Paul's admonition to "show tolerance for one another in love" is not a call to disregard others' immoral practices, but to be ready to show compassion and to sow seeds of right thinking and being.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, how does your compassion identify you as worthy of your calling?
2. Second, how might your willingness to breach your comfort zone be the spiritual buoy another needs?
3. Third, as "His workmanship," how might a readiness to teach, coach, or prompt someone provide useful options in engaging others where they are?

// Monthly Evaluation

It's time for a quick monthly evaluation. Point your browser to ocfusa.org/LDNpodcast or check out the show notes for a link to download the monthly reflection sheet. Use the reflection sheet to help gauge your habit of integrating faith and profession, and to help get you into the habit of keeping a written record of those times when the Holy Spirit speaks to you.

// About the Narrator

COL Laurence Mixon, USA, a 1986 graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point, retired in June 2016 after a 30-year career with the Army and transitioned to an Army Senior Executive assignment at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. He served on the OCF Council from 2011-2019 and has also been active as a local leader in OCF. He and his wife, Tracey, have 8 children.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from 2 Corinthians 1:20, quoting from the NASB:

"For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore, also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us."

Spare me the goat trails. Just give me a straight answer! Ever had one of those days when all you wanted was a straight answer?

If the Corinthian people ever desired a straight answer, Paul gave it to them. God's promises are "Yes," and the appropriate response is "Amen" (so let it be). There's no gray, no verbal spin, only a matter of fact "Yes." Leaders operate in a fact-based realm that sometimes calls for rapid fire decisions. Paul, Silvanus and Timothy preached a fact-based gospel. In our flesh, so much of what we say is colored with political viewpoints and opinions, but God has not called us to deal in questionable, opinionated answers. His Word is sure and certain.

How can we know that His Word is true?

Consider Paul's approach, written about in Acts chapter 18: "When Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to the Word, solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ." Paul's unwavering confidence in the Lord's intent and direction enabled him to speak truth and to move on when his message was rejected.

Are you seeking clarity from God on a matter but are uncertain that you are hearing correctly? Here is a thought: Do not ask for something for yourself but ask that His will in that situation be done and earnestly desire to be part of the answer. God cannot say no to what He has already said yes to.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, how do we know the truth? Those who continue in His Word know the truth.
2. Second, God grants clarity to the concerns of our heart as we spend time with Him and seek His guidance.
3. Third, are you embracing the promises of God, or are you relying on your own understanding?

// About the Narrator

COL Laurence Mixon, USA, a 1986 graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point, retired in June 2016 after a 30-year career with the Army and transitioned to an Army Senior Executive assignment at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. He served on the OCF Council from 2011-2019 and has also been active as a local leader in OCF. He and his wife, Tracey, have 8 children.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.

Today's Scripture reading comes from Micah 6:8, quoting from the NASB:

"He has told you, O man, what is good;And what does the LORD require of youBut to do justice, to love kindness,And to walk humbly with your God?"

How does God speak justice, mercy and humility to you? The issue of Micah 6:8 was that God's people wanted to know how to placate God. They seemingly wanted to offer Him what did not require a change of heart or compassion on their part. God rejected their offer of materialism and issued His precise requirements of man: to do justice, to love mercy and to be humble. Service done in God's name is best received when done with a compassionate heart and sincere concern.

The people of Micah's day erred through ingratitude to God, religious pretense, dishonesty, idolatry and the like. The same could be said for the sin of choice today.

In view of God's requirement for justice, mercy, and humility, what does it mean to practice these on a daily basis at home and on the job? Within the confines of a close knit, selfless community, it is not a stretch for leaders and subordinates to express selfless love for those they serve alongside. Let's face it, when a leader goes out of his or her way to ensure compliance with safety directives and take extra steps to discourage illegal or potentially harmful behavior, that leader is not only practicing justice but is also demonstrating love and sincere concern.

The practice of upholding standards discourages one from straying, thus avoiding unwanted consequences. Humility helps the servant leader find balance between justice and mercy.

The reminder of God's requirements to do justice, love kindness and to walk humbly with Him suggests that the people were doing the opposite. Consider the opposing actions to his instructions: lack of justice would result in unfair treatment, unreasonableness, and unconcern for others. The opposite of mercy would reflect a lack of compassion, unforgiveness, and unkindness. Absent humility, one becomes prideful, self-serving, and arrogantly assertive.

What is God speaking to your heart regarding the application of justice, loving kindness, and humility? God's preferred sacrifice is a "broken spirit and a contrite heart." He rejects self-justification but embraces compassion.

// Points to Ponder

Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor.

1. First, what sacrifice of service are you offering God?
2. Second, when was the last time your heart was pricked to demonstrate selfless concern for one who did not deserve it?
3. Third, is God pleased with your heart of service?

// About the Narrator

COL Laurence Mixon, USA, a 1986 graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point, retired in June 2016 after a 30-year career with the Army and transitioned to an Army Senior Executive assignment at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. He served on the OCF Council from 2011-2019 and has also been active as a local leader in OCF. He and his wife, Tracey, have 8 children.

// Purchase a Copy

Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon.