DEAD TIRED

While conducting exercises in the Marine Corps, the instructors had a saying, almost a mantra at times. This statement, taught during counter IED (improvised explosive devise) training, is also the basis of a mindset every Marine should have. “Complacency kills!” the instructors would say, in an attempt to portray how lackadaisical Marines can quickly become dead Marines. A small mistake can spell out disaster in a dangerous environment. The devil really is in the details.

This term, “complacency kills,” made its way to the middle east with our military personnel, where it can be seen spray-painted on war-torn walls as a reminder of the silent killer, laziness.

When we live in a stress-filled environment, either here in the states or as missionaries living in a not-so-Christian-friendly environment, we have to sustain a heightened level of alertness. Living with this level of alertness for long periods of time can cause us to get burned out. We then begin to succumb to the temptation of cutting corners in our protective measures. This can manifest itself in the routes we travel, the clothes we wear, not carrying our weapons, etc. We began to create patterns in our lives that are easily tracked by predators looking to take advantage.

How do we combat this? First, we need to make sure we have some sort of activity to decompress from our daily stress. Second, in the midst of our stressful lives, we can look for the “path of most resistance.” This may seem contradictory to our resting, however, looking for the more difficult path and having the discipline to follow through with it can be a great safeguard. When faced with a decision, not excluding the small ones, we should consider taking the more inconvenient option. This can ensure that we don’t follow our underlying lazy desires. Counting on our Marine’s “laziness,” terrorists would place IEDs on heavily patrolled pathways like bridges or roads. By taking the more inconvenient path through the mud, water, and tree lines, the Marines bypassed these deadly threats.

CONCLUSION

Take an appropriate amount of time to identify the path of most resistance. Also considered evaluating the amount of rest you need, preventing you from getting burned out.

Colossians 3:23-24

23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.