In 1776, the 13 colonies set out on a journey of self-determination, fighting for five years to overcome tyranny and explore the ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. However, even then, the American experiment struggled—and continues to struggle—with contradictions around: whose life, whose liberty, and whose pursuit of happiness are worthy of these unalienable rights?
Over the next two weeks, we will set the historical context for the October 26th TJC Battlefield Summit at Kings Mountain, NC. This week, we focus on key factors and individuals that made this battle pivotal to the Patriot cause, as Thomas Jefferson noted when he said it “turned the tide of the war.”
Over the Mountain
Via TJC
“…Run in such a way to win the prize. Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable crown. So I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” ~1 Corinthians 9:24-27
The Overmountain Men knew the value of discipline and engagement. Though not professional soldiers, these raw and rugged Patriots (men, free & enslaved men, and even women) understood that by leveraging their talents, experiences, networks, and resources, they could overcome seemingly overwhelming forces. Through years spent on the frontier, hunting game and engaging in conflicts with native peoples, they gained intimate knowledge of the land and tactics. Their proficiency became the foundation of their guerrilla warfare style. They believed that their bond with one another, combined with their belief in the cause, would bring them victory—and it did. They turned the tide of the war.
When you visit a TJC Battlefield, you’ll take part in a lesson on Spiritual Disciplines. At TJC, we divide Spiritual Disciplines into two categories: Disciplines of Abstinence and Disciplines of Engagement. The Disciplines of Abstinence include fasting, silence, and sacrifice, while the Disciplines of Engagement encompass study, worship, fellowship, and service.
My own proficiency ebbs and flows, but at the end of the day, I can always trace it back to one question: “How intentional is my practice?” God has given me talents, experiences, networks, and resources, but knowing that I am skilled enough to overcome overwhelming forces? I don’t always feel that way. It’s in those times that the fellowship of the men around me is invaluable. I have four guys in my life who I’ve called my “Board of Directors.” They speak Gospel truth into my life, they believe in the cause, and I believe in our bond. Moving forward, I think I’ll call them my “Overmountain Men”!
Daily Battle Order:
Do you have “Overmountain Men” supporting your family? When was the last time you intentionally practiced a Spiritual Discipline? You don’t have to wait! Sign up for fellowship at King’s Mountain today!
Follow me, I know the way to King’s Mountain! Join TJC and me as we step into a pivotal battle where local men unite to ‘turn the tide’—for themselves, their families, and the nation. Experience your victory firsthand too! Register here:
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