By Chap. (Capt.) Pat Opp
Special to GUIDON

Safety is important. Adhering to safety helps protect us. In tours down range, Soldiers wear eye protection at all times. It is critical to protect our eyes from dangers like the sun’s harmful rays, wind, dust storms, airborne particles, and in certain combat situations. During the day, we use a shaded lens while at night a clear lens is more suitable. Wearing the correct lens is imperative.

The Bible encourages us to wear the correct lens too. I think the lens of faith is appropriate no matter if its day or night. While Scripture doesn’t say to wear sunglasses, it does tell us to trust God. It’s true that we are to walk by faith and not by sight. God knows the oppositions, challenges and trials that can negatively influence and discourage us. The writer of the Book of Hebrews reminds us that, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen.”

Faith teaches us to see God in life and each event. When we do, we learn to trust him and act appropriately. Chuck Swindoll adds, “Life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we react.” Faith is the best way to react.

In Hebrews 11, the great heroes and heroines of the faith put on their “eye-pro of faith” and chose to trust God despite the odds. Instead of looking to the difficulties, they looked to God. By faith, Enoch walked with God. Noah built an ark that saved himself and his family from the Great Flood. Abraham looked ahead to God’s future city. Moses chose God over Egypt’s palace and riches. Joseph led by his integrity. David defeated the giant. Israel walked through the Red Sea on dry ground. Many others trusted God too.  

Perhaps these acts of faith in the Bible are wonderful examples of safety for us to adhere to. We are safe when we trust God and take him at His word. So, the next time you face difficult challenges, practice this safety principle and view God and your circumstances through the lens of faith. After all, it is only faith that pleases God (Hebrews 11:6). When we do, we’ll enjoy his rewards and be glad we did.  

(Editor’s note: Opp is the 3rd Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Chemical Brigade chaplain.)