The sergeant and Military service
A young man joined the military service as a soldier.
One morning, he was ordered by the sergeant to report for duty at the canteen.
He, however refused.
The sergeant threatened to report him to the officer that day.
“All right,” said the young man, “go ahead. I did not enlist to be a bartender but a soldier, and I will not report at the canteen!”
His action of refusal was duly reported to the major who sent for him.
His companions taunted him as being “adamant” and “snobbish”
The young man went to the Major – with trembling knees but a steady heart – for he knew he was right.
The officer asked him, ‘Are you the young man who disobeyed orders this morning?’
“Yes, sir, I am.”
“Why did you do it?”
“Simply because I do not believe it is right to do what I was asked to do.
I enlisted to be a soldier and not a bartender.’
The officer arose quickly from his chair.
A trickle of fear went down the spine of the young man!
However, the officer extending his hand, said: “Young man, you are the kind of man we want.
I am glad to see a fellow who has the courage of his convictions.
You are not obliged to report at the canteen.
I am proud of your convictions!”
The young man was supposedly considered by others as being “adamant” and “proud”…
But the officer realized the worth of this young man – as having a courageous character of convictions!
True commitment and steadfast faithfulness in life requires the power of convictions and certainty!