Imagine this: you find yourself on a battlefield surrounded by Soldiers armed to the teeth, and you’re the only one without a weapon. It sounds intense, doesn’t it? Well, that’s the reality for Chaplains. They enter combat zones armed only with their faith.

While most military personnel may not understand how the Chaplain can face combat without a rifle, spouses might understand.

Every day, you face battles where you feel outgunned, and you might wish you had some high-tech gear to help you win the fight.

But here’s the amazing part: you may not have missiles guided by lasers, but you possess something even more formidable – your faith.

Society often associates strength with physical force, but let me tell you, the greatest power comes from our faith in God.

“For with God, nothing is impossible” (Luke 1:37).

Our faith will propel us forward when human strength fails us.

It will help us navigate the challenges of military life and give us the fortitude to offer unwavering support to our loved ones.

Our faith is like a guiding light, illuminating our paths, and empowering us to keep putting one foot in front of the other.

When deployment and separation loom, and other challenges threaten our peace of mind, faith becomes our shield against despair.

Faith is a weapon that combats loneliness and doubt.

Psalm 20:7 has always inspired me in my role as a “noncombatant.” It says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.”

This verse may sound peculiar to modern ears, but consider this: Chariots represent weapons of war, so think “tanks”; and horses symbolize wealth, so think “money” or “the economy.”

Now, read this modern interpretation: “Some people trust in military weapons, and others trust in economic strength, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.”

So, here’s a reminder: even if you don’t carry a rifle, you possess the most powerful weapon of all – your faith.

It can sustain you, empower you, and give you the strength to face each day bravely.

And remember: you don’t have to face your battles alone. You can always call on a Chaplain for support. Our conversations are completely confidential, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

We are here to provide guidance, support, and a listening ear. Together we can overcome the challenges of military life.

On the battlefield of life, even without conventional weapons, our faith grants us a strength that surpasses all earthly means.

Embrace it, cherish it, and let it be your guiding light through the ups and downs of military life. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). 

Even without a rifle, you are a true warrior in every sense – and God is fighting by your side, with victory in His hands.

*Chaplain (Maj) Jason Hohnberger is an Army Chaplain. He serves The American Forces Network as the Broadcast Center Chaplain in Riverside, He can be reached at jason.c.hohnberger.mil@mail.mil

*Check out The Chaplain’s Corner for more posts like this.