Afghanistan: 179 Days of Teachable Moments is a book of daily devotionals from a soldier living in combat zone. The author’s goal? To find the voice of God in small moments.
The author, Florence Robyn Smith, served a six month deployment to Kabul, Afghanistan. Her assignment as Executive Officer (XO) on base gives a unique perspective to the daily workings of military life. She speaks of assignments in such a way that you can taste dusty air and feel bumpy roads filled with craters. The threat of Taliban Insurgents and rebel attacks gives the devotions a surreal element. And the journal of daily activities shapes a new understanding of the sacrifices made by soldiers.
From the military exercises to the mundane tasks of life, there is something for everyone within these pages. Smith offers the gift of looking at the intricacies of daily life and pulling out a scriptural truth, which she calls, Teachable Moments. Smith says, “Playing with sin is like playing with a hand grenade.”
She says she learned to love the people she served, both on base and off. I was pleasantly surprised to learn of the soldiers buying shoes for the Afghan people, through initiatives like the Afghan Women’s Education Center, a non-profit organization providing assistance to women and children.
I am grateful for Florence Robyn Smith’s service, and for all who strive to keep our country safe. We have no idea the dangers our military face on our behalf, and in a largely thankless position. But they do so day after day, away from family and friends. Smith also uses this as a Teachable Moment, encouraging all to leave comfort in order to “enter into a realm of His presence that is extraordinary.”
Get this book of devotions for a soldier in the military or for a soldier in the Lord’s army. It will equip for battle on the frontlines of life!
Sally
Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Sally, thank you so much for the inspiring review of my book. As a civilian in the Department of Defense, we are not often called to accept such risks as serving in a combat zone. This experience has given me the courage to walk in the extraordinary by taking on new challenging endeavors to support the warfighter. My steps are ordered by the Lord and my six-month deployment as a civilian has spurred a hunger for the next mission (teachable moments) in a “not so dangerous” environment. Thank you again!
Thank you for clarifying, Florence! Whether civilian or soldier, you made a difference in the lives of many in Afghanistan!
So glad to hear that a woman leader in the military was able to share her experiences and find the positive in such a negative and dangerous position. Can’t wait to read!
Yes, she talks about the cultural rub, as Afghanistan is a patriarchal society. But she was able to make a difference there in her actions and attitude!