“Camouflage Christian”: Living for Christ while serving in the military

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Show Notes

So many conversations within the OCF community circle back to this question: How ought Christians in the military integrate their faith and profession? One week after graduating from high school, CW4 Rich Smith, USA (Ret.), embarked on 24 years of military service that provided him experiences that answer that very question. Upon retiring from the Army, Rich has developed a passion for encouraging other service members not to camouflage their faith in Christ during their years in the military.

In this episode, we discuss what hinders and helps Christians live out their faith in the military, his personal experiences with Christian fellowship during years on active duty, and more. He also shares about his book, Camouflaged Christian, which provides a deeper dive on the topics he discussed on Crosspoint. Rich now resides in his hometown of Rome, New York, with wife Teri and granddaughters Amerie, Elodie, and Maisy.

As you listen to this conversation with Rich, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What motivates you to camouflage your faith while serving in the military context?
2. How does Ephesians 6:10-20 encourage you to live out your faith in all areas of life?
3. Rich shares a couple of personal anecdotes about how fellowship with other believers strengthened his walk during his time in the Army. What impact have you seen fellowship or the absence of it have in your own life?
4. What Scripture can you commit to memory for the seemingly impossible tasks you’ll face at work?
5. Rich talks about the value of turning to the Bible first in all circumstances. What things do you find yourself turning to first for encouragement, comfort, etc.?