In the middle of the Soldier’s Creed are four lines that are referred to as the warrior ethos. It is central to the character of a soldier. It elevates cause above person. Selflessness and service are its underpinning. It further motives the soldier to do what must be done even if all appears to be lost.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
The Bible states that we are made in the image of God (Genesis 9:6). Images of angelic paintings with flowing white garments are hard for a soldier to relate to. At times we don’t feel angelic, and I have yet to see a clean uniform outside the wire.
The Lord delivered the Israelites from Egypt in one of the most dramatic ways that could have been imagined. Moses stretched out his hand, and the sea parted. All the Israelites passed on dry ground, and then God looked down on the Egyptians from the pillar of fire and “threw them into confusion” (see Exodus 14). In the Egyptian’s words, “The Lord is fighting for them against Egypt.” The Egyptians tried to flee but when Moses stretched his arms out again the sea engulfed them. The escape from and defeat of the Egyptians were complete.
Exodus 15 records a new song that Moses and the Israelites sang to the Lord immediately following their deliverance. It provides a different image of God, one which warriors today can take strength in. We are after all made in His image.
God give me the strength to be a warrior. I know I am made in your image. By your example and by your name I have strength to fight. Give me, Father, the strength to show your mercy and grace when called for and the intestinal fortitude to complete my mission.
“The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name.” (Exodus 15:3)