Duty to God part 1

Duty to God is one of those phrases that lost its meaning over time. Today, many think of duty as rules and being forced to do things you do not wish to do. Duty has nothing to do with rules. Duty is doing what you are expected to do – and a bit more – without being told to do it. General Robert E. Lee said, “Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more; you should never wish to do less.”

Scouts learn that duty is a matter of honor. By neglecting to perform our Duty to God, our family, our country, and each other, we dishonor our self. At one time, duty as part of our social thinking. It was important for people to be seen as someone who did his or her duty. Today Scouts and Scouters still hold that responsibility for themselves. They know that there is something that is expected of them. Their duty is to do what is right and do it every time. Industrialist Andrew Carnegie said, “Do your duty and a little more and the future will take care of itself.”

“We never fail when we try to do our duty; we always fail when we neglect to do it.”

Robert Baden-Powell

1857-1941

Founder of the Boy Scouts

Duty to God is found in our relationship with Christ. Judge Roy Moore said, “To do my duty, I must obey God.” As a Christian, you know that there is a standard you live by. God has called us to be holy, right, and good. The principles of the Christian life are not up for evaluation or debate. As believers in Christ, we have a duty to follow Him. Just as Scouts, we have a duty to follow and obey the Oath & Law. It is the duty of every Christian, Scout or not, to be an example to the world of what it is like to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a duty we take seriously and willingly.

Scouts learn that they have other duties as well. They have a duty to their family to serve, protect, and love them. To help them succeed and be the best they can be. A duty to their country to obey its laws and protect its honor. They have a duty to others to serve and show kindness and encouragement. By performing well in all these areas, a Scout is doing his Duty to God.

For the Scouts and Scouters who believe in their values and has a robust desire to do what is right, duty is a natural outcome. Duty, like all the characteristics of Scouting, is not based on rules and restrictions, it is freeing and liberating. It is based on choice. We choose to do our Duty to God, willingly and freely. That is what makes us free. 

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey