Devotionals

Khaki Green Baseball Cap

by John Custer
10/31/20
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I was a compliant person, so I didn’t expect problems in the Army.

After enlisting, my hair was removed, I was issued fatigues, boots, and a khaki green baseball cap.  Later we were in formation when I realized that I forgot my cap.  I was so angry with myself and unsure of what to do.  If I went back into the barracks to get my cap, I would risk the humiliation of the sergeant.  I decided to risk going without my cap.   

On the march I meditated about what they do to people who forget their cap.  Do they get court marshaled or have KP duty for the rest of their enlistment? 

Fortunately, no one noticed.  Pvt John learned his lesson and was never without his cap again. 

All of us make mistakes.  No exceptions.  We can have the best intentions but undoubtedly things sometimes go wrong.

After Gen. Grant graduated from West Point, drinking cost him his first assignment.  For several years he lived in poverty.  He reentered the military and was quickly promoted.  He made a horrible mistake at Shiloh which was the costliest battle in American history. He went on to win the Civil War and ultimately became President.  After he retired he made a bad investment and lost all of his savings.  He spent the rest of his days writing his memoirs  so that his wife would have some income to live on after he died.  He did not let those experiences define him.

Romans 8:1 (NIV) states, “…there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

So when you fail, try again.  Not everything goes well for everybody all the time.

“Lord, help me to grow from my failures.”

Sharing Christ is my purpose and passion.