Let the Redeemed of the Lord Tell Their Story

(Psalm 107:2)

Written by Suzanne Isaac,
Singer and instrumentalist for the Planting Roots Worship Team

This is my story…

I began my military adventure as a drilling Reservist on the 19th of Dec 1979, during my senior year of High School. I needed my MSG Daddy and SSG Mommy’s permission to join. Why? I was only 17 years old. At the time, I was in the middle of my second semester as a college freshman, the assistant gymnastic coach for Fort Carson Middle School, a year-round competing Elite Gymnast, and a member of the concert/marching band and choir. Can you say over achiever?

I had a plan, was a “fast tracker,” self-sufficient, independent, and a survivor. Always striving to be not just “good,” but the “best.” Excellence is how the world measures you. NCOERs turned into OER’s, promotions, leadership positions, special projects, motherhood, and throw in full-time RN while being a “Drilling Reservist.” My plate was pretty full!

Then, as a seasoned 1LT with Desert Shield/Storm on the horizon, I was asked to be the BN Chemo (chemical officer) for an Aviation Unit headed to the desert–a first for a woman at that time. After company command and several other assignments, I was brought on Active Duty for Special Work (ADSW) assignment to write doctrine at the US Army Chemical School. This is where God began to soften my “over-achieving” heart, through the witness and testimony of a young female 1LT (Reserve) Signal Officer, who was assigned to assist me.

Our duty days began with His Word followed by worship through music. She showed me, through the Word, the difference between “going to church” and “being the Church.” A growing yearning to rest at his feet and calling me back towards Him with a mighty promise if I would seek Him in those quiet places…

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” 

Isaiah 40:31

This verse is reflected in the lyrics of the song “Soar,” by Meredith Andrews –I’m gonna run and not grow weary, I’m gonna walk and not grow faint. I’ll rise up on wings like eagles, to soar!” God was preparing me for His plan! His way!

Fast-forward to the end of 2 more ADSW tours at Fort McClellan, AL. This time I asked God for His plan. I prayed, “Open the doors you want me to walk through, and close the others; use me for your glory. Lord, if it is your will for me to stay here in Alabama, make a way.”

And He did. He provided for me, so much better than I even thought was possible. He’s a good Father. I didn’t have to earn His love or “over achieve” to be recognized by Him. His abundance overflowed just because that is who He is.

Not long after this, I met my future husband, Bob, a handsome active duty Captain and talented musician. It wasn’t long before he won my heart. Bob loved to play guitar and sing, and encouraged me to sing and play with him whenever the opportunity would present itself.

From leading worship at that tiny church plant in Kansas, and later for our beloved chapel in Heidelberg, Germany, a transformation had begun taking place. My focus shifted from being the “all boots and business” officer-in-charge, to that of a Soldier in God’s Army. And in that Army, my duty position was to be a musician. It was all training for the battlefield–the spiritual battlefield.

God has blessed me more that I have space to write about. But the point I want to make today is that when we remain faithful He restores us. He laid my mission out before me. Since that time, I have been blessed to be included as part of the Planting Roots Worship Team. He has instilled in me a strong desire to learn and play a variety of instruments for His glory. I know what my purpose is here on earth, and it brings me great joy and satisfaction.

I am a Soldier-musician in God’s Army, helping to lead His troops (the congregation) in battle against a powerful and wily foe, through the lifting of our voices and instruments in praise and worship to God the Father, His Son, and Holy Spirit. It’s my new and far superior version of “boots and business!”

Suzanne Isaac

 

***The song I would like to share with you is called, “Soar,” by Meredith Andrews! Enjoy – and be encouraged for your journey with the Lord.

 

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As a Retired Army Reserve Officer, Suzanne is particularly passionate about serving and building up military women and spouses. Currently stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and married to an Active Duty Army Officer, she is actively involved in various Chapel ministries and faithfully brings her passion for worship (with multiple instruments and harmony vocals) to the Throne.
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