The discipline of a Navy SEAL is defined by extreme self-control, relentless pursuit of goals, acceptance of personal responsibility, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to maintain composure and perform under immense pressure. This discipline is forged through rigorous training and is sustained by habits like waking early, constant self-improvement, a never-quit attitude, and leveraging the support of their team to achieve mission success. Navy SEALs don’t “just do what they want” because their actions are dictated by strict mission parameters, team structure, strategic goals, and the need for discipline under pressure, not individual desire. They must follow detailed plans and leader directives, work collaboratively, adapt to uncertain situations, and maintain focus to ensure mission success and team safety, as their lives and objectives depend on this ordered approach. The percentage of candidates who become Navy SEALs is low, with estimates suggesting that only about 20-25% of candidates complete the rigorous training program, and Navy SEALs make up roughly 1% of all active-duty Navy members.
This is a level of dedication that few attain. It is definitely a road less traveled. We are supposed to be traveling on the narrow way (Matthew 7:14 KJV). This means that we must be disciplined. We can read through the list above of requirements of being a Navy SEAL and apply them to our walk with Christ. After all we are the soldiers of Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 2:3 WEB). We must accept personal responsibility, pay meticulous attention to details of the Word, and possess the ability to maintain composure and perform under immense pressure. We should constantly be going through self-improvement and have a never-quit attitude. We have to support the “team” or Kingdom to accomplish the mission. There are things we simply can’t do. There are sacrifices that we have to make. We can’t just do what we want. If we are soldiers of Christ then He is our Commander. If He is our Commander then we have to do His bidding.
So I endure all things for the sake of those chosen by God, that they too may obtain salvation in Christ Jesus and its eternal glory (2 Timothy 2:10 NET). Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses (1 Timothy 6:12 KJV). That is the way I run, with a clear goal in mind. That is the way I fight, not like someone shadow boxing. No, I keep on disciplining my body, making it serve me so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not somehow be disqualified (1 Corinthians 9:26-27 ISV).
2 Timothy 2:3-4 WEB 3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier on duty entangles himself in the affairs of life, that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier.