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Firefighting and Life – 2 in 2 Out
“A man’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?” (Proverbs 20:24)
Down a hot and smoke filled hallway, three firefighters advance a hose line through debris as they move towards their objective.
One is on the nozzle, applying water as needed, and leading the way.
One is pulling the weight of the line and searching as they go.
The officer is at the rear guiding them with a thermal imager and working the kinks out of the line, all the while staying oriented to exit and their air management. The firefighters are focused on their task while their officer is watching out for their safety.
Consider the imagery presented and take a moment to compare it to your own life.
As you advance through your life, you size up your problems, and attempt to mitigate each situation but:
Has anyone stopped to help you along the way?
How have they helped you to carry your load?
Has someone acted as an overseer, wise counsel, a mentor or one who has directed your path?
In life or in firefighting we all need a guide, a light to our path, or someone to lead us because we cannot do this alone. We understand the concept of two in two out. Two firefighters working while two are ready to save them if necessary.
God has been your Rapid Intervention Crew all along. He has been pulling the slack out of your line. He has been directing your path so you may see through the darkness.
In firefighting, we don’t do anything alone. God is at the door of your heart speaking the words:
“I will never leave you, nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
Hi Andy , I am a volunteer ambulance officer of 8 yrs plus mine site emergency response in kalgoorlie western australia although outwardly appearing not to be religious have had a deep and strong faith all my life. Unfortunately my personal life has been anything but good this year being one of the worst when a female paramedic that I was close to killed herself. This pushed my faith to its extreme limit from which I don’t know if I have recovered from it was as if God chose to hurt me. Dave
Hello Brother David,
Thanks for sharing with me. I am glad to hear that you have a strong faith and want you to know there are those who will listen to you. There are those who will be there in your pain and not judge you my friend. If you would like to talk and learn more about those who can help please email me at astarnes@firefightertoolbox.com
Thanks & I will be praying for you my friend,
Andy J. Starnes
Hi Andy
from that dreadfully time I thought that no one saw my my message only now it has come up and I am glad to see you answered it the next day, so kind of this is a miracle for me to see this and some how I have desperately maintained my faith. I was removed from the ambulance service with ptsd and a clinical psychologist has done some wonderful work with me but I still have a long way to go.i just want to say that Christ is my lord and always will be
dave
Brother Dave,
It’s good to hear from you. I am glad to hear that your faith is central in your life and that you are seeking help. If I can be of assistance to you please let me know. You are in my prayers.