"Don't bring me down!"

"The officials shall continue to address the troops, saying, 'Is anyone afraid or disheartened? He should go back to his house, or he might cause the heart of his comrades to melt like his own!'"

(Deuteronomy 20:8)

Morale is huge. It's significant in the healing process (ie. folks dealing with extreme sickness or life-threatening illnesses). It's a part of every athletic competition (confidence vs. feeling overwhelmed). And it has been an essential part of warfare & battles. Today, while reading Deuteronomy, I saw just how essential God thinks it is.

The author tells the Israelites that when they prepare for war, the priests shall inspire them with a pre-battle pep-talk (Deut. 20:3-4). Then the officials ask 3 preliminary questions: Has anyone built a new house, but not yet dedicated it? Has anyone planted a vineyard, but haven't harvested any of the fruit? Has anyone gotten engaged, but has yet to be married? Anyone who answered in the affirmative to ANY of these 3 questions was immediately dismissed from military service (for that battle). Then the leaders ask THE BIG question: "Is anyone afraid or disheartened?" They, too, are sent home. No further questions asked. Wow. God knew that keeping the courage/morale levels of the troops was far more significant than having another sword in battle.

We humans are often feeble and frail creatures. Not all of us can be brave & strong all the time. But far be it for us to infect others with our fear, worry, and foreboding. This world has enough negatively already. W need to surround ourselves with people who will inspire and challenge us to greatness... not tear down our hope and faith.

May I be a person of encouragement and inspiration. All the time. But also, may I be able to recognize, as a leader, when someone is being adversely negative... and may I have the courage to "send them home" before they can crush the spirit of the rest of the church/group/ministry/project. AMEN.