Spiritual Battles For Military Families

During the holiday season our minds and hearts often drift overseas to those brave men and women serving God and country far from home. One of my friends, who spent several years in the Air Force, met her future husband while they were both active in the military.  She has graciously agreed to share her story with us ...

"My experience in the military showed me two things. Just like every American, peacetime is a time to forget God. It's not until things get rough, wartime, separation from loved ones that a person is most likely to look to or blame God for their circumstances.



Separation time is difficult for the military member but I believe it is even more difficult for the family left behind.



While I was stationed in Korea for a year, I had only been married for a little over one year. It was extremely difficult for me to have to leave my husband behind. I lost ten pounds within the first month and really felt disconnected. No one really wanted to be there, so there was no use complaining.



I remember some friends' advice, "You will either grow or fall back spiritually during deployments. There is no 'staying the same.'" They were right. I got connected with a local Bible study through the chapel and spent most of my free time with friends I had made there. I also had the opportunity to connect with a missionary outreach located just offbase for uniformed personnel.



The worst thing that happened while there came from my own husband. He was having a real hard time dealing with this separation and all his phone calls were about his misery. It got to where I didn't look forward to them anymore. There was nothing I could do and I told him he needed to focus on taking care of himself for now and just keep busy. That didn't mean I didn't love him. He made the decision to surround himself with people who believed personal happiness was king. He secretly considered divorce, so he might have a chance at happiness with someone else.



Fortunately, God protected me from knowing about it and I was able to grow spiritually during my tour and see other people through His eyes. I was on fire when I returned and ready to serve.



My advice:

1. Stay connected with those you love in the military no matter what their relationship is to you. Take advantage of every opportunity to communicate God's love. This is the time they will be most open to receive it. Send Gifts!!!



2. Do not share every problem with a deployed member unless it is absolutely necessary. They are usually helpless to assist and will feel the need to do something. Lean on neighbors and friends for help whenever possible. Do include them in important decisions."



- Lisa from Iowa





Thank you, Lisa!