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The anxious excitement of the unknown filled my heart as I wondered what would happen the next three and a half days. I took a walk through the woods and began to pray against the anxiety that began to swell in my heart. The gentle touch of the Holy Spirit then began breaking this fear that had gripped me. I started weeping as I thought about the incredible journey that brought me to this place. I knew there were many mighty men of God praying for this event.
As I stood there at National Training Camp (NTC) with no patches, no belt, no outdoor skill and a heart full of fear, I was introduced to the first commander of the weekend: Commander Paine! PAIN! - God DOES have a sense of humor! Our Lord knows exactly how to put us in the most challenging situations so that God can get the greatest glory.
What followed was torrential downpours, intense training, and endless hiking; All a part of God’s plan to break those strongholds off of my life. He also showed me many of the mistakes I made with the young men in Camden Outpost 149. The greatest perhaps is that I wasn’t always showing them the unconditional love of God through my life. I was telling them about it, but my words and actions weren’t always lining up. I learned many lessons over that weekend. I learned about persevering and pushing my body and mind past the quitting point. I learned that the spirit man, when allowed, can push the natural man to do extraordinary things. I learned that there are no mistakes in life, only teachable moments! I learned that a gentle word spoken in love and encouragement is far more powerful than a million words spoken in fear and intimidation. I learned that having things well planned out, organized, and visually displayed make learning more effective and lasting. I learned the importance of “spare-time projects”. My time is not my own to do with it what I want. As a leader, every moment needs to be spent doing my best for others. I learned the importance of earning an advancement. Advancing in the Kingdom of God is going to take uncompromised hard work and sacrifice, but the benefits are worth it! The greatest lesson perhaps is found in Hebrews 13:6...
“So we say with confidence, the Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
That weekend, God used every commander to chip away at the shackles of fear and intimidation that had bound me since I was a boy. I thank God for all of the commanders that demonstrated the love of Christ to me and the 57 other men that joined me. I am privileged to be a part of the Final 7: The last seven patrols of NTC in the Northeast Region. We will forever be God’s divine number of completeness and perfection! I have been retooled, refueled, and redirected to pursue the high calling of our Lord Jesus Christ. That call is to seek and save the lost and to direct them to the One who loves them!
Keith Carpenter
Senior Commander
Outpost 149 - Camden, NJ
