There are several verses often cited from Scripture that are near and dear to us military folks and our families. Below are three:

• And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “here I am! Send me.” (Isaiah 6:9, ESV)
• “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13, 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” (Joshua 1:9, ESV).

Context, Context, Context: As always, to properly interpret Scripture we must have the proper context so as to prevent plucking pet verses out of the Bible to fit our agenda. It’s God’s book; therefore, we need to understand that Scripture is God’s revelation, not a trove of quotables for proof texting.

• Isaiah was called by God to herald the truth of God to a stubborn and recalcitrant people. Isaiah’s ministry was promised to be brutal, and it was. Isaiah’s great theme was God, not Isaiah.
• John 15:13 is Jesus’ farewell discourse in John’s Gospel wherein Jesus is telling his disciples what Christian obedience looks like–namely, obedience to God and love of neighbor. That means a life of sacrifice–with Jesus as the perfect model.
• And Joshua is God’s raising up Joshua to be the national leader after the death of Moses. It is a picture of what a high calling it is to shepherd and lead a people–spiritually, militarily, and governmentally.

Encouragement: Tomorrow is Veterans Day in America, a national holiday to honor all those who serve and have served. I’m grateful for you, brothers and sisters. Some of the finest people I’ve ever known have been my fellow military personnel. I’m also deeply grateful for your families who have often stood behind and beside you. Despite many days and years of separation, you remained steadfast. I salute you, too.