Learning From My Dogs
Larry Schneider
12/04/22
- Christian Living
LEARNING FROM MY DOGS
My wife and I love having dogs around. For all of our married life we have had a dog or dogs. We have had everything from an Irish Setter, to a Chocolate Labrador, to Beagles, to rescue animals, and those dropped off at our house in the country. We currently have an Australian Shepherd (Mocha), an Aussie-Doodle (Maggie), and a mutt (Rob) from the Humane Society. We enjoy our dogs (most of the time) and are glad that they have acres in which to run. They entertain us and keep us company. They are good watchdogs, and I believe they would protect us if danger came our way. Though all dogs have different traits, habits, and personalities, most dogs have good characteristics that Christians could learn from and apply to their lives. Here are some lessons that dogs could teach us:
1.Dogs are always glad to see you when you come home. They greet you as you arrive home after a hard day at work. “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.” (Romans 12:10) Maybe we could learn a lesson from them about greeting others at church.
2.Dogs are satisfied with a little something to eat and a place to lie down. “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” (Philippians 4:11) As human beings, are we ever satisfied with what we have?
3.If you are tired or not feeling well, dogs will lie in your lap or at your feet and give you comfort. “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.(I Thess.5:11) Dogs seem to sense when you have had a bad day or are exhausted. Showing a little concern and offering a little comfort can go a long way toward brightening someone’s day.
4. Dogs are forgiving. Even after you scold or discipline them, they still love you. When you accidently step on their feet or tails, they still love you. ”And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32) As the Lord told Peter, “forgive 70 times 7.”
Dogs can bring great happiness and joy to their owners. They offer companionship and comfort throughout their lives. Dogs are truly one of God’s wonderful creatures. Perhaps, if all of us learned a little bit from our dogs, we might better understand each other.
Written by Larry Schneider
