The gift of freedom isn’t free,
Not now or for eternity.
Our soldiers die or suffer loss,
Like Jesus on that wooden cross.

In war we lose our young and brave.
As with the Lord placed in a grave.
A youthful death brings pain, the worst.
God knows. He feels. His Child was first.

And on the day that Jesus died.
Like women now, His mother cried.
Her heart was crushed with hurt and strain,
‘Cause freedom often comes with pain.

Just ask a soldier, he will tell,
A living nightmare – war is hell!
Freedom’s price is very high,
But they, like Christ, for it will die.

And so each day, I pledge to stop.
My hands will fold, my head will drop.
The thankfulness that fills my heart
Will fuel my day, a leader’s start

My voice, I’ll lift above the crowd,
I’m not ashamed, of them I’m proud.
Through Jesus and our soldiers true,
Sweet freedom comes to me and you.

Though some may fight against them both,
Before you now I take this oath.
The crimson blood that each has shed
Will not be wasted on my head!

I’ll live a life of leadership
My grateful heart will never slip
For Jesus and the soldier brave
I’ll honor this great gift they gave!

Devotional

Hebrews 13:7-8 (NKJV)

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Although this passage is specifically addressing spiritual leaders, three general applications can be made about all good leaders.

1. Leaders should be respected enough to be remembered – ” Remember your leaders.” Are you leading so profoundly others will remember you?

2. Leaders should be respected enough to be scrutinized – “Consider the outcome of their way of life.” Are you leading in such a way that the end results draw positive attention?

3. Leaders should be respected enough to be imitated – “imitate their faith.” Someone said that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Is your leadership worthy of duplication?

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