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Key Bible Verse: Never be ashamed to tell others about the Lord (2 Timothy 1:8). Bonus Reading: 2 Tim.1:5–8

I arrived at Florida's Tyndall Air Force Base fresh out of college and confident in my faith. But as I struggled in the training program, my confidence ebbed.

At my first operational flying squadron at Tinker AFB, in Oklahoma, I got caught up in a misguided attempt to fit in with the other junior officers. I lost touch with the Officers' Christian Fellowship group and became a closet Christian. What I didn't realize was that the squadron recognized me based on my technical and tactical competence, not my willingness to drink with them at the officers club.

Fortunately God gives second chances. I got mine back at Tyndall as an instructor. I decided to obey God's call to integrate my faith with my profession. I reconnected with OCF, becoming a local leader. As a flight commander, instead of worrying about what my bosses thought of me, I made the personal and professional lives of my subordinates my priority.

By the time I led our aircraft wing into combat over Afghanistan, I'd discovered that there's no substitute for prayer in resolving conflicts. We performed well on our missions, but under the surface our cohesion was endangered. So I prayed—a lot.

—Capt. Chris Holinger in Stillpoint

My Response: On what basis do I believe my coworkers size me up?

Adapted from Stillpoint magazine (Gordon College, Summer/02) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, let me know clearly the work that you are calling me to do in life. And grant me every grace I need to answer Your call with courage and love and lasting dedication for Your will. —St. Meinrad

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