LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces – Second Quarter 2025 newsletter

This issue of So Help Me God, the newsletter of LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, takes up Martin Luther’s understanding of spiritual affliction — Anfechtung, or “cut to the heart.”

Every Christian throughout life experiences Anfechtung, or times where one is burdened by guilt and attacked by the devil.

In the first article, Chaplain Steven Hokana discusses Anfechtung in the life of a soldier or veteran, which often takes the form of trauma. Hokana explains: “We live in a fallen world and the rawness of sin strikes us hard. Remember, you are not like the rest of the population. You are called by our country and placed in harm’s way.” But thanks be to God that no matter what hardship strikes you, nothing can separate you from God’s gifts of Word and Sacrament.

This issue also includes a list of ways to rely on God during times of spiritual affliction: to remember your Baptism, to receive the forgiveness of sins in the Sacrament of the Altar, and, at all times, to pray.

Finally, let’s not forget that every Sunday is an Easter Sunday! In his second article, Hokana reminds us that Christ is risen! “Christ’s death and resurrection is a promise made, a promise delivered, and an event we live out every day and in every aspect of our life,” he explains. Read the rest of the article by downloading the newsletter.

Webpages and resources that can help individuals grow in Christ can also be found in this newsletter.