I love running into burning buildings. The smell, the darkness, the heat, the battle. Apartments and high rises are my favorite. The bigger the building, the bigger the fire, the bigger the battle. It’s easy to do my best while on duty.
In other areas of my life, it isn’t always as easy. You see, one little word can keep us from striving and achieving our best: fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of making a fool of ourselves.
But on the job, it is easy for me. No matter the problem we are dispatched to, I know I am not alone. When crawling down a dark hallway that is so hot it feels like your skin is about to melt, I am not alone. Following inches behind me is my crew. In any moment, I will feel someone’s hand on my shoulder letting me know they are behind me waiting for me to decide what to do next. When I walk into the firehouse and place my gear beside Squad 20, I know that no matter what, I have eleven brothers that will have my back, even if it costs them their life. Because of them, and for them, I have the courage to give my best in all things on the job.
The Lord also encouraged a man that was fearful to act and achieve his best. When Joshua stood at the beginning of his new leadership position—fearful, doubtful, wondering if he was able to achieve—the Lord commanded him to have courage. Not courage that he will never fail. Not courage that he wouldn’t struggle. But courage because he, too, would never be alone.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9 ESV
Written by Jordan Weldon ’06, Gwinnett County Fire & Emergency Services
