The Fire Service: Problem Or Passion – Part 2

In the first article we discussed the problem of bitterness. Let’s dive right into how as an individual you can be affected by it, grow, and change for the better.

Not too long ago, I had fallen victim to the poison of bitterness and even considered leaving the fire department. I would often ask “Does my service even matter anymore?”  I heard a man speak by the name of Rick Lasky on Pride and Ownership. It was as if God told him to speak directly to me. I felt renewed and energized, but sadly I fell down again.  It was not until one day in church when I cried out to God that I received my answer.

You see, I was relying on my own power and my own ability to sustain my calling. I wanted so bad to make a difference that it drove me over the edge when I failed. I felt that I no longer made a difference until I noticed some of my brothers around me struggling. Then I saw difficulty become opportunity.

My friends, I want you to know this: You make a difference every day!

Remember these words and think on them the next time you feel the pain of bitterness:

Every day that you decide to smile in the face of adversity you will unknowingly lift someone else’s spirit.

Every day you choose to serve the impoverished, the addict, the homeless with compassion and love you make a difference.

Every day you choose to do the hard work of being honest instead of taking the easy way out you have sown a seed in another’s heart of what integrity truly means.

Every day that you work out instead of lying on the couch and complaining you set the example.

Every day that you read, train, and mentor others you make an impact on their future for the moment and for their lifetime.

Every day that you bow your head and pray you show others that your allegiance goes to a higher calling than any badge can bestow.

Every day that you take the time to listen to your brother/sister, who is struggling, you show what it truly means to “carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2a). Every day that you refuse to fall victim to bitterness you will lead without even knowing.

Do not underestimate the power of your influence, your encouragement, and your compassion for others. When the world tells you that you can’t make a difference pick up a Bible and read. Read about all the men and women who faced insurmountable circumstances but God showed his mighty power through them. Read about Paul (a mentor), Barnabus (an encourager), and Timothy (a disciple). Surround yourself with individuals like these.

Read about Jesus and how he loved in spite of circumstances and how he led in the face of adversity. Read about how He prayed with great anguish when he was dismayed. Read and see how He had compassion on the sick, the imprisoned, the homeless, the widow, and the orphan. Read about how He did all of this not for the world’s recognition but out of God’s great love for you.

If you want to make a difference, if you want to renew your passion, and if you want to truly help others; welcome back to your calling. Call upon God. He will give you the strength that you desire. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

And let your profession be your pulpit as “whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:14)

Part 2 of 2
Part 1 link:  https://firefightertoolbox.com/fire-service-problem-passion-part-1/