Lesson 110: On Becoming You

Kentucky Chaplain David Chaltas

As you walk around the campus of Virginia Military Academy, you will note that prior to entering the barrack area, above your head are maxims engraved. They are words of wisdom from the immortal Stonewall Jackson. One that has made a lasting impression is, “You may be whatever you resolve to be.” Jackson proved that to be true. He was from the mountains of Virginia (Clarksville), orphaned at a young age, lived with his relatives, self taught yet became one of the greatest generals and true Christians of all time. “He resolved to become the best. He resolved to become true to himself and his Creator. But it came with sacrifice. It was said that he thought his vision had been damaged due to reading by candle and firelight while at his aunt and uncles along with his studies at VMI. When he became a professor at VMI, he had a daily routine of walking at six in the morning, breakfast promptly at 7, walking back home from VMI, eating and then reading the Bible while standing. He continued a regimented life and believed in constant prayer. He set his goals and then worked to realize them. He made sacrifices to achieve his objectives.

As Christians we were created in His image. We were given purpose. We were afforded an opportunity to become the best. Some discover theirs while others seek and still others have lost their way, hence simply lost. God made us to be able to embrace choices and the consequences of those choices, a chance to follow the faith of our fathers, a conscience of right and wrong and an innate desire to become that unique person that is who we truly are. One of the great tragedies of life would be to reach the point of death realizing that you have not lived at all. There is freedom in Christ. Galatians 5:1 states, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by the yoke of slavery.” What burdens you? What is your yoke of slavery? General Jackson once told an aid when asked about his calmness in battle that his religion taught him that he is just as safe in bed as on the battlefield. It was Christ that set him free of his bondage and it was Christ that led him to become the man of destiny that was his calling.

We serve an awesome God. A God of love, a God of forgiveness but a God to fear, especially His wrath. In Psalm 115:13, the Bible states, “He will bless them that fear the LORD, both small and great.” On becoming you, one must look deep within for the realization of God’s design for your life. What is your purpose? What will lead you to finding your path in life? In Proverbs 7:2, the Bible says to, “Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thy eye.” Maybe the secret lies within the book of Books and by seeking, earnestly seeking through, reading, prayer, and meditation you will discover the YOU that you must become. For how terrible it would be to live your life in your will but be out of the will of God and His plan, his desire for your prosperity. Won’t you surrender to the call of Christ? You can do it this moment, as you read this message. For there is life in the spirit and the fruit of the spirit is peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22). Dare to dream and dare to become the dreamer. Live life as a gift and upon that moment when you cross over the river to rest under the shade of the trees, let it be said by those left behind that you had truly found your destiny, because you had become YOU. With total belief in you abilities, I remain your obedient servant, The Old General.