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Families should develop a support system

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Ministry Snapshot

[…]lifetime’ The adage of a church not being a building, but rather its people also applies to the ministry of Officers’ Christian Fellowship. Click a story below to get a snapshot of the vast entirety of ministry work that has gone on over the years through OCF, now entering its seventy-second year. The people and stories featured here represent all those who have sacrificially given of their time, talents and treasure—standing on the shoulders of giants while declaring God’s “power to the next generation” (Psalm 71:18).   I. Time, Talent, Treasure: Academies Exceptionally demanding—that is the four-year journey through one […]

A day in the life of OCF

[…]chapel Bible study at the discipleship luncheon.    1300 In the home office, member care and ministry support director Marci Morris and her team continue a busy day of mailings, database work, and handling member requests. An email from a deployed Marine captain arrives: “Thank you for the card and for praying for me… It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing we are only here to accomplish an earthly mission.” He requests prayer for his pilots, their families, and returning home stronger in the faith.  The finance team works through some financial data, bookkeeping, and processes a check […]

Professional Perspectives for Senior Officers

[…]be able to handle a peer ministry and develop unior leaders for coordinating an installation-wide ministry. MINISTRY OF VISIBILITY If you are not the direct leader, find ways to be visible and share your ministry with junior officers. Meet regularly for prayer and discussion with those who are the direct leaders. Use your presence for encouragement and example, and provide advice and mentoring. Support your chaplains. There are some positions and assignments where it is not possible or appropriate for Direct Leadership– perhaps extensive TDY or a very senior position that requires a full day and evening schedule. However, there […]
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Impact Your Military Community!

[…]message. However, the cafe could not happen without the military chapel. And the chapel cannot support it without the active involvement of Christian leaders. Petra Cafe is one of many outreach opportunities that could impact the military community, if only the local chapel had the laborers needed to support the mission. Purpose In OCF we are enjoined to ” . . . minister effectively in the military society.” Being a part of the chapel family provides us with opportunities to minister effectively to those with whom we work and deploy. However, the contrast between civilian churches and the military chapel […]

TTP – Vision and Leadership

[…]must each prepare ourselves to be the most proficient, most prepared technician and leader to support mission accomplishment in the face of any eventuality. We also must maintain our physical health and level of fitness to ensure we are capable of performing our mission under any circumstances. Finally, and most importantly, we must mentally prepare ourselves and our loved ones for the mission requirements we may face. Our business affairs must be in order, our families informed and prepared, and our accounts set straight so that we can focus our energies on putting forth our best effort-anytime, anywhere, on a […]

The Line Officer and the Chaplain

[…]portion of Christ’s Church within the military! Why God May Lead You to be Involved in Chapel Ministry I’ve served as a civilian church pastor for seven years. I deeply appreciate the ministry of Christian churches and their leaders. Both are appointed by God for His purposes. I’ve also served on active duty in the Navy for five years (first as a line officer, then as a chaplain). Out of these experiences, I’ve learned some reasons why God may lead you to serve Him in your local chapel. I’d like to share them with you. I hope you’ll see them […]

Spiritual Battle Plans

[…]to withstand temptation and walk victoriously in the Christian life. Because a robust Christian support network is often not available on deployments, godly ambassadorship during these times requires intentional vision and endurance. There are also other factors that cause godly ambassadorship on deployment to be more difficult: an increased operational tempo, less sleep, irregular eating habits, more demands/stress, and less alone time for spiritual quiet times. All these dynamics wear on one’s emotional and spiritual health. If purposeful steps are not taken to counter this situation, a person’s spiritual world/foundations can truly be rocked. As military leaders, we go to […]

The Role of Faith

[…]I have been overwhelmed with a sense of support and love from my church family.”9 With the support of others and your sense of God’s strength within, you will be able to identify with the apostle Paul when he said, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. . .” (NKJV, 2 Cor. 4:8-9). In addition to the strength and help you draw from your personal faith, your chapel or place of worship may offer a support group for encouragement. Military chaplains experience […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: Academies

[…]Fellowship House. Tom Austin, Bryan Burt, and their USAFA and USCGA counterparts’ collective ministry efforts rely heavily on their faithful teams of volunteers to make ministry happens. Such “force multipliers,” as Tom calls them, are also long serving, such as Dr. R. David and Mary Ann Hampton, whose fifteen years of service includes the USMA OCF tenures of Mike Tesdahl and Barry Willey, as well as Tom. These dedicated team members of active duty and retired military and civilians-more than thirty-five at both USMA and USNA-who come alongside in support of the OCF field staff at the academies, are spurred […]

Members: Cast your vote now for OCF Council

[…]its mission in a military culture that has significantly changed since the concept of the ministry. Staying practical, relevant, and faithful in the development of Christian officers is a need that continues to exist. The traditional OCF ministry approach must be adaptable to continue assisting officers in successfully exercising biblical leadership in the challenging days ahead. Nominated by: LtCol Todd Ferry, USMC; MajGen Mel Spiese USMC (Ret.); LtCol Mike West, USMC (Ret.)   LTJG Nathan Barnes, USCG Education: USCGA, Mechanical Engineering, 2011 Present assignment: SECTOR New York Ministry involvement: OCF member since 2009, USCGA OCF President, OCF Bible study leader; […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: ROTC

[…]they begin to understand God’s love and grace are among the pinnacle moments of ROTC cadets ministry, said Rob.   ROTC Q&A One of your ministry’s most moving moments? Wiseman: There are many, but one of the most memorable was with ECU cadets at a regional retreat. One of the female cadets from our group openly and candidly shared why, as a single college student, she was maintaining her purity and devotion to the Lord.  Her honesty and sincerity spoke volumes—especially since 80% of the attendees were males.   Enos: Immediately following morning formation, a campus dining hall is packed […]

Six Generations: 1

[…]of multiplication. Paul resigned his Army commission in 1970 and joined the Navigators ministry, for whom he now still works as a senior executive. Theirs is a ministry of discipleship…of faithful men teaching other faithful men the ways of Christ. Gwyn Vaughn, another committed officer, came along and picked up the ball from Paul. With the support of ministries like the Officers’ Christian Fellowship–another group, different in scope than the Navigators, but equally dedicated to helping build cadets into disciples for Christ and sharing their faith with others through prayer, fellowship, and Bible Study. In 1969–Jon’s last year and my […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: Retirees

[…]Jeff Silliman, the personal joy of sharing with his mother “the impact of OCF’s ministry on our lives and also meet Mr. Tok” at WSS, is also a legacy to continue. “I want to be part of passing on what that great cloud of witnesses passed on to us,” said Jeff.     RETIREES Q&A One of your ministry’s most moving moments? Kit Vaughn: We mentored a couple having marital difficulties, inviting the husband to dinner and weekly Bible study. He came to know the Lord during the nine months of Bible study, and decided to go back to his […]

The Wounded Healer

[…]grieving wife, their baby, and other heartbroken relatives and friends. Despite her faith, and the support of family and community friends, Diana’s wounds—pain, anger, denial, and fear for her son’s young family—are profound, constant companions she will likely carry with her until her dying day.  Death—and the separation that ensues because of it—is the curse of Adam’s sin. For Diana and her family—and countless families throughout the ages who have lost loved ones, particularly in combat situations—you can’t help but wonder, can any good come from such an unspeakable tragedy?  However, it is in the strange economy of God where […]

Leadership Came Naturally

[…]but primarily a belief that even in combat God was in control. He was a builder, not only in ministry for OCF but also physically. The month he died he had just finished supervising the construction of the second house he and Sarah built, in Charleston. The first he built in Spring Canyon practically with his own bare hands (except for specialties like electrical and plumbing etc.). His was a life of committed integrity. He was committed to his wife, Sarah, and their family, his friends, OCF, and most of all, his Lord and Savior. Our lives intertwined in many […]

OCF and Leadership

[…]small group Bible studies, we are getting the job done. If we have small groups without effective ministry, we are failing. In most cases, effective ministry will die off without effective small groups, so we must continue to encourage that. But, the questions for the local leader are, “How are OCF members ministering here, and how are you encouraging and equipping one another?” Overall from where I sit, OCF is healthy. There are places and people where we need to do some work, and there are people who will never catch our vision. We can’t fret over them. We just […]

Leadership without Coercion

[…]Army, sixty drill sergeants to give them that introduction, and a handful of officers and NCOs to support them. When I introduced myself to the drill sergeants, I included with my hobbies, family, and interests the fact that I am a Christian. I said I wanted them to know what shapes my values and behavior. I told them that, although I prayed that each of them would be a Christian because I believed that would be the best thing for them, that my judgment of them would be based on their performance and conduct alone. Their spiritual interests would have […]

OCF Groups and You

[…]opportunity. Church affiliated—varied people meeting for fellowship/prayer study as a formal ministry of a local church, cooperatively with OCF Specialty group—any of the models above but created specially for singles, women, senior officers, or whatever salient demographic at that location. Since you are OCF, your group will be what you make it at your duty station. Determine the need and start working to fill it. OCF’s website has great resources for starting/leading groups and finding other OCF groups near you. Or contact the home office link-up program for assistance. Let the home office know if you do begin a group, and […]

Returning Home

[…]other–in an intentional act of commitment to each other and to God. Their home church can be a supportive part of that celebration. The adjustments families need to make can be improved by a good understanding of the stresses of separation and a strategy for thriving. Robert Leroe has a Doctor of Ministry degree from Drew University. A former Army brat with 25 years of military service, he is the Chaplaincy Endorser and Pastor of the Cliftondale Congregational Church in Saugus, […]

What Works for New Officers?

[…]get to your unit and can’t find a BIBLE STUDY, start one! See whom the Lord sends your way. Get support from your chaplains. Ask for their advice; they may even be able to buy study guides for your group. Start with an interesting study in which all can participate, like Luke or Philippians. Ask others for help. Make it fun, avoid controversial issues, and focus on simple truths for effective Christian living. Include prayer and praise. TIP: You can facilitate a study with those who are of higher rank than you. Just stay disciplined, and keep it professional (2 […]

The Chaplaincy

[…]don’t know what I’m going through.” Credibility is one of the cornerstones for the effective ministry of a chaplain. Once credibility is established, ministry doors open wide. Ministering incarnationally earns us the right to be heard. By God’s grace we model Jesus–and through doing this we have the blessed opportunity to tell them about the God who died for them. I think of our work much like the ministry of Phillip in the book of Acts. He was called to leave the comfort zone of fruitful ministry in Samaria. The Angel of the Lord told him, “Take a walk on […]

Christian Leadership for the Junior Officer

[…]honesty goes for your commander, your colleagues and your subordinates. I remember as a new support officer in a Special Forces unit, briefing in error that a group of passports were “squared away” for an upcoming small element deployment. One of my subordinates briefed me in error, earlier on that busy day, as I headed for yet another meeting. In all honesty, the fault was mine because I should have been better informed, earlier. After informing the Battalion XO of my mistake, I immediately informed my Battalion Commander (now a General Officer) of my error and my plan to fix […]

Finishing Strong, in Iraq and Life

[…]mechanic to the communications expert under antennas on dusty hills, they clearly understood the support they provided. During some of my unannounced visits to the troops’ work places, I heard them talk firsthand about how their individual roles were significant and how what they did contributed to the final mission of handing over the infrastructure to the Iraqi army. Our soldiers are professional, dedicated, strong, and compassionate. Yes, they looked forward to getting home to their families and lives on American soil. But in Iraq last summer, morale was upbeat-considering they still had to take cover when sirens sounded “incoming […]

Getting Intentional in Your Marriage

[…]permission to ask each other difficult questions. If you don’t, who will? Challenge, support, and encourage deeper spiritual growth: journaling, Scripture memory, extended time alone with God, fasting… Ask yourself: How am I serving my spouse today? Is he or she on my “calendar” or “to do” list? Extend grace- daily. Forgive and ask for forgiveness. Think the best of your spouse’s motives and intentions. In the Book of Acts, we are introduced to a married couple that moved in tandem, seamlessly serving others with humility and excellence-Priscilla and Aquila. “When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to […]

It Didn’t Surprise God

[…]need. It began with an e-mail message, followed by updates as events unfolded. The outpouring of support was incredible. Each step of the way, our Christian and military families lifted us up. Letters, e-mails, and cards poured in. People cooked meals for us. Most important was prayer. We were especially covered by prayer the day of Heather’s surgery. It was an experience of peace, even when Heather was rushed from post-op back into surgery to close a bleeding artery that swelled her neck with blood. But it was far more than just peace in the hospital. Many people have prayed […]

Know Your Rights!

[…]audited Financial Statements to anyone who needs greater detail. Know what the programs you support are accomplishing. We feel that this is critically important. We try to communicate what the Lord is accomplishing through OCF through COMMAND magazine, thank-you letters, the executive director’s quarterly letter, and other communications. Know that the organization is in compliance with federal, state, and municipal laws. A major help with this is the independent CPA firm that annually audits our accounting methods and procedures. Experienced with not-for-profit organizations, the firm is invaluable in making sure that we comply with all applicable laws. Restrict or designate […]

Leadership by Example

[…]and deliberately unconditional, a whole of five parts. In sequence you will swear: To support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. To bear truth, faith and allegiance to the same. That you take this obligation freely, without mental reservation or purpose of evasion. That you will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which you are about to enter. So help me God. So, what obligation flows naturally and concisely from this oath? What is the obligation that you are assuming, that you can never take off or lay […]

Leadership Q&A

[…]and Hur help him in the midst of a desperate battle against the Amalekites. We also need such support. There are a lot of temptations to compromise your testimony. Your wing-man in the struggle will help you overcome these. For me, this faithful partner has been, and remains, my wife, Rebecca. She is my confidant, advisor, friend, and accountability partner in the fight. I could not have made it without her. Q: What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were a newly commissioned officer? A: We are serving in a culture increasingly unwelcoming to […]

Service Separations

[…]of the most important things is to let your husband know clearly, firmly, and often, that you do support him in the career to which God has led him. Reassure him that while you don’t enjoy being separated any more than he does, you realize this is a part of his work and you gladly accept it. How many careers and marriages have we all seen go on the rocks, simply because wives could not or would not adjust to the demands of their husbands’ jobs? Encourage your husband. Remind him that you are praying for him, that he will […]

Six Generations: 2

[…]week, in the evening, down in the basement of the cadet barracks where the quiet atmosphere supported a discrete study of the Bible. Participants, including members of the company other than Plebes, had to obviously be willing to sacrifice a portion of their evening that would have otherwise be devoted to studying for the next day’s academics. As it turned out that year, not one of our group suffered adversely in academics. On one occasion, we were unable to meet due to scheduling conflicts. Jon wrote a personal note to the members apologizing. His note to me was brief and […]

Soldiers of Faith: Washington

[…]today even suggest that Washington was a deist, though there is no scholarly evidence to support such a claim. These historians further claim that it was Washington’s luck, combined with Yankee ingenuity, bravery, and tactics that allowed America to prevail as a nation and garnered Washington a place in history as a great commander. Certainly, ingenuity, bravery and good tactics were in evidence, but Washington prevailed because of a good deal more than luck. Clausewitz’s assertion that the moral force embodying the commander, creates the virtue of the army and the national feeling, had validity in the history of the […]

Some Thoughts for Christians

[…]and order in societies of sinful men. Further, conspicuous by its absence in Scripture, is clear support for a particular form of government. What strikes me is that these matters which seem so very important to us seem not so to God. God knows the human heart, and though not unconcerned with the structures we set up to govern and interact with each other, He is far more concerned with our relationship to Him and the work of His Church. Knowing our limitations, God knows that whatever political systems we set up, we’ll mess them up. Conversely, no matter how […]

The Heartbeat of OCF

[…]prayer, and to hear the Gospel. The Bible is read, studied, and applied. And mutual compassion and support through the many trials and heartaches of military life is rendered with love, understanding, and compassion. Starting and Becoming an Effective Group The important thing is getting a group started so there is a safe place where you can encourage one another to acts of love, service and Christian maturity.  As commissioned officers and Christians in the Armed Forces of the USA, most every one of us can find a wingman to pray with about starting an OCF group.  Once you have […]

The Jungles of War

[…]numerous casualties from mortars and small arms fire from the south end of a village. We requested support from the U.S. Air Force. After marking and target confirmation, two F-4s dropped their ordnance–napalm and 500 pounders–on the target. Enemy resistance stopped. My unit secured the village without further casualties. Everything was done very professionally. All was well until, as we moved into the area hit by the air strike, I encountered my first civilian casualties of the war. They were an old man (over 70) and his wife who had been too feeble to leave the south end of the […]

The Space Between

[…]Mission, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engel_Scale) In my first active duty unit, the 68th Corps Support Battalion at Ft. Carson, Colorado, the space was shortened by several things. The Lord let me lead a family conference, which helped people get closer to each other and to Christ. Provider and Prussman Chapels were where the Lord let me preach and help people grow in their relationship with Jesus. My unit deployed to Kuwait for a year. Preaching there was another chance to help people with their spiritual growth, as well as using the Alpha Course for discipleship, and living our lives the way the Lord […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: OCF small group fellowships

[…]Whether they meet before/after duty, or during lunch, OCFers come together in Christ’s to support and encourage each through Bible study and prayer.   Navy submarine lieutenant Mark Treen believes God has given him a rare opportunity to be a missionary to those he lives, works and eats with in the ocean depths, an environment where the difficulties crew members face are more acute. The challenge, he says, is “letting Christ’s light shine when you feel like you’re surrounded by darkness,” and instead trusting in Christ’s promise that, “the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should […]
Read more » Time, Talent, Treasure: OCF small group fellowships

Unity of Command

[…]CINC. There is no bloodshed, no military coup or insurrection. Rather we see Americans uniting in support of our country even in difficult times. We live in changing and dangerous times. We see and experience economic woes and instability in our country and globally. We deploy continually because of political, economic, military and religious problems. Our military is in the cross hairs of various religions and religious groups vying for power and control in their countries and regions of the world. Welcome to the world in which Adam forfeited his authority to Satan. It’s a mess and seemingly getting worse. […]

Waging Another War

[…]and conducted three combat tours in Iraq. His third deployment was as a Company Commander in support of Operation New Dawn Bibliography i. Arterburn, S., Stoeker, F., & Yorkey, M. (2000). Every Man’s Battle: Every Man’s Guide to Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time. Colorado, CO 80920: Literary agency of Alive Communications, Inc., 7680. […]

Ways to Give

[…]like to contribute using your credit card, please contact me. Thank you very much for your support of and interest in the ministries of Officers’ Christian Fellowship. It is vital to the continuation of the work that the Lord has given all of us. To get started on one of these options today, or for more information, please contact me at […]

You Are Commissioned

[…]members, new challenges and assignments may seem even more difficult. Without a built-in family support system that travels with you, you not only have the challenges of military life, but you may have to find a whole new set of Christian friends and new sources of fellowship. Since you are “commissioned” to enter into this battle, you can expect the unexpected. Every battle has its crisis. The question is, “When crisis enters into your life will you view this as a time that may seem unfair, unexpected, and just to be tolerated, or will you view this as a challenge […]

Kentucky – Fort Knox

[…]& Time: Tuesday at 1830 -2000. Location: Ft. Knox Religious Education and Religious Support Office Bldg. 4768, Room 7, 226 South 8th Armored Division Drive across the street from Prichard Place Chapel. Men and women’s discipleship study groups are available along with […]

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Preparing for Active Duty

[…]ordinary relationships within the military community. (Romans 1:16-17, 1 Peter 3:15-16) Ownership (Ministry) An appreciation for and a commitment to the OCF vision, purpose, and mission. (Ephesians 4:11-13, Colossians 3:23, Acts 4:13) Air Force Academy “firsties” sometimes ask: “Why should I have to attend the Basic Course at Maxwell? It just  rehashes what I’ve spent four years learning.” Not true! You will build relationships that will last throughout your career, and for the last two weeks of the course, you will interact with NCOs from the Senior NCO Academy. Perhaps the right questions are: “Lord, what is it that You […]

Six Generations: 3

[…]a Chaplain at Fort Benning, Georgia, for a mechanized infantry battalion, Timothy also led a ministry at a small chapel on the base. He was soon reassigned to Europe and found himself in a Germany-based artillery unit bound for Bosnia with another Army unit. He soon was encouraged by some of his soldiers to start a Promise Keepers Bible study and found himself ministering to a diverse group of men from all races, religious affiliations, and backgrounds, all desirous of learning about and walking close to Christ. They started calling themselves the “Men of Integrity.” Timothy eventually led this group […]

Interview with Chaplain Beach

[…]are under the authority of their church in the conduct of their ministry. Their role, in this sense, is like that of any biblically based pastor: to win, train, and encourage believers. Credibility within both the military setting and the Christian community is essential to accomplish this. The Christian officer, unaware of this duality, can easily become unjustly critical of chaplains’ attempts to fulfill their military role well. Many want them to be chaplains first and officers second. The reality is that they are both, simultaneously. A second misunderstanding is, who owns the chapel program. Who really is responsible for […]

How does the Lord see you?

[…]years earlier. The other fellow talked about how Wheaton had prepared him for his current ministry as a pastor. But in hearing about the lieutenant colonel’s current position, the pastor sighed, what a waste of a Christian education! The lieutenant colonel, knowing perfectly well how God sees and called him, countered with the ways his military service enables him to daily impact lives, feeling God’s pleasure in doing so: counseling a young man on a gun turret about issues at home, or ensuring a family is being cared for during a deployment. The officer’s point—feeling God’s pleasure wherever He’s called […]

The Chaplain’s Role

[…]a vigilant watch, they ask questions about the Lord. I have learned something very valuable: This ministry is not about me as the chaplain. Yes, I go on as many patrols as is safe for my men, and I share the Word, but I cannot meet the spiritual needs of all the patrols that proceed out our gates. I must equip my soldiers with the weapons to fight the spiritual enemy, then I must trust that they will learn through small group Bible studies as the Spirit leads. Pointing Soldiers to Christ I want my soldiers to learn to turn […]

What Right Looks Like

[…]act. In 2 Corinthians 6:3 Paul says, “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path so that our ministry may not be discredited.” Like Paul, through our walk with Christ, and our demonstration of our faith to others, people should not be turned away from the ministry of God. They should see what right looks like in us. Professional Development As military professionals we are often guided by the lessons we learn from past conflicts and operations. Professional development is an ongoing process for any officer, noncommissioned officer, or civilian. Proverbs 23:12 states, “Apply your heart to instruction and your […]

Colorado – Rocky Mountain ROTC

[…]and Texas Tech. Lt Col (Ret) Falconer introduces and mentors cadets and midshipmen in the OCF Ministry model to become servant leaders who integrate their faith and profession to take up the mantle of spiritual leadership within the military community. He also organizes an annual Rocky Mountain ROTC Retreat at Spring Canyon, OCF’s Retreat and Conference Center just west of Buena Vista, CO. He also seeks to find retired OCF members near universities in the region to catch the vision of OCF ROTC […]

California – Twentynine Palms

[…]every other Sunday afternoon (4pm) at our house, and we are also active in the growing Base Chapel Ministry: Sunday mornings, Tuesday Christian Women’s Fellowship (CWF), and Wednesday evening “Refuel” ministry. Please contact us so we can help introduce you to the Christian community here on base and out here in the High […]

Finding certainty in an uncertain world

[…]eight Spiritual Pillars. Pillars four and five address our key principles of being a “lay-led” ministry where “integrating faith and profession” is exhorted to our members. I believe the ability to shine the light of Christ effectively in the most difficult of our military careers’ situations depends upon how well we live out God’s instructions through Paul’s letter to the Philippians. We live in a hurting world of people desperate for answers. As a Christian, you already have the answer—Christ in your heart. If you have successfully guarded your face, heart and mind, when uncertainty strikes those you lead will […]

First Bible Studies

[…]By the latter, I mean that similarities will be emphasized between Nehemiah and the type of ministry OCF seeks to accomplish. This should help you as a leader by having others in the local fellowship “on board” with what you are seeking to do at your installation. Because of the above point, this study is a great introduction for your group to have a follow-on Pray, Discover, and Obey (also see the Pray, Discover and obey Leader’s guide). The obvious next step would be to schedule a “Pray and Obey” where you would draw aside for a “season” of prayer to […]

For All Leaders

[…]hear God speaking to you. Leadership requires time to think and plan. Your command is part of your ministry. Discipline yourself to have quiet times each day, no matter how busy you are. Be competent in your profession and give God the glory. David, one of the greatest warrior-leaders of all time, provides us an outstanding example in Psalm 144:1, “Praise be to the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.” David demonstrated excellence as a warrior and glorified God in the process. Let those you lead know early on that you are a […]

How Shall We Pray?

[…]our most important work of the day and we are committed to honor each request. Because our prayer ministry is so important and foundational to what we do in OCF, I have asked myself, how should we pray? There is not an easy answer simply because so many people are stressed, attacked, wounded, separated, or discouraged. My first inclination is to ask, “Is this from you Lord? Is it fair? Why? and, Would you lift the burdens from the shoulders of my friends who are hurting?” My request is similar to King David’s words, “Listen to my cry for help, […]

OCF Council Elections Now Underway

[…]and to His work in the military society, I will participate actively and prayerfully in the ministry of OCF with my time, talents, spiritual gifts, and financial resources. I further commit, by God’s grace, to live my life as an example consistent with biblical guidelines.'” This change to OCF’s Statement of Participation, contained in Article V of the OCF Constitution, reaffirms OCF’s commitment to minister to the entire military society and ensures we OCF members live our lives consistent with biblical guidelines, so as to reflect Christ in every aspect of our life and be effective witnesses for […]

Part of an amazing lineage

[…]to visit with Morgan Jackson, senior vice president of Faith Comes By Hearing (FCBH). Morgan’s ministry is committed to getting “God’s Word everywhere for everyone.” So far, they have recorded the Scriptures in over 800 languages and dialects and have leveraged numerous methods to distribute these recordings.  In his introduction, he asked which part of the New Testament was the most compelling for many of the world’s cultures. Stymied, I uttered the usual—the good news about Christ. Morgan captured my attention by saying it’s the first seventeen verses of Matthew’s gospel. Why? Because many cultures treasure and value their lineage—where […]

Share this spiritual gift with your teen

[…]share their testimony with us atop the cliff. What a fine young couple, so much heart for this ministry. Ate our sack lunches. Getting warm, drinking lots of water. The boys are cutting up, getting cocky about rappelling, and now rock climbing. Good equipment. Safe. We drive to Buena Vista (the nearby town about ten minutes down the road) and to “K’s” for ice cream. Brian got a shake, enjoying the other boys’ company. Beautiful park next to K’s. Frisbee, the boys naturally have to compete. Time to build a human pyramid. Rick is cracking me up. He fears nothing. […]

Therefore We Will Not Fear

[…]for the past few weeks. He confided that when he was out of the service, he planned to enter the ministry. Then he told me how much it had meant to him in everyday life to become a Christian. In discussing his immediate future, Russell said that the platoon of which he was a member needed a scout, and that he had volunteered. Men must usually be assigned to this task. Russell assured me that his confidence was in Jesus to whom also he looked for the strength and courage necessary to undergo the many dangerous assignments which were to […]

Three Words

[…]from war, you come home with nothing to be ashamed of. “Jesus is Lord” will add a dimension of ministry to your life. Through chapels, OCF, and other forums, you will seek to carry out the Great Commission. All of us are called to be active parts of the Body of Christ, “speaking to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” and always being “prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have . . . with gentleness and respect.” In the military we share our message of […]

What is Required of Me?

[…]impact the organization by leading the leaders rather than the doers. An OCF installation-level ministry is like this as well, where your job is to encourage others through relationships of trust in an environment of grace. “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s…” Army Rangers talk about giving “100 percent and then some.” For you as an ambassador, this means wholeheartedly accomplishing every task in ways that glorify God and taking care of all service members and families in your care. People will respect you, gravitate to you and want to be like you because you are excellent as they define excellence. […]

Wrestling with Depression

[…]as the enlisted advisor to the Executive Council of Officers Christian Fellowship. His vision for ministry is to train, equip, and encourage chaplains and chaplain assistants globally.  If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, seek the help of a qualified professional counselor. Talk to your commander or chaplain who can get you the help you need. Published in COMMAND magazine August […]
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