Love My Dogs!

     I love dogs! Especially my own! I have two miniature dachshunds and I have Brittne’s sheltie. There are many reasons why I love them so much. They love you unconditionally; they do not care if you have been cranky all day and have bit everyone’s heads off. They are always happy to see you and to spend time with you. We call our dogs wiggle tails because they have long tails that wiggle like crazy to show us how happy they are. Our dogs are usually obedient. They do test us occasionally but they know we are the ‘alpha dogs’. They are totally dependent on us for their care: when they get fed, when they potty, when they spend the day outside, when they get their baths, when they get their flea protection, and when they see the doctor. They do not worry if we are going to meet their needs; they totally rest in our care. Lastly, they love staying close. They snuggle up next to us and enjoy their restful sleep. The love they give me warms my heart and tends to make everyday better.

     I often think that if I possessed these same quality to my Master, I would bring Him much joy! We often speak of God’s unconditional love for us but should I not give Him unconditional love in return. Often our love is tested with trials, hardships, and heartbreaks. Some people turn from God when these times hit. I need to live in such a state of unconditional love for my Master that my love never falters. It is easy to get my thinking backwards and think that God is pleased with me for having my body in church and Bible Study. In reality, He could care less if my body is there if my heart is not happy to be there. It would please Him if I wanted to spend time with Him and was happy anytime I could be in His presence. I know that my obedience to Him shows my love for Him. I wish I could say I was always obedient but that would be a lie. Our flesh continues to test our obedience. Another thing I want to work towards is total trust in God’s care. Why should I worry if God is going to provide for my needs? He has never failed me and left me in need! I need to live in total peace knowing He will provide for all of my needs. Lastly, I need to snuggle up to Him and rest in His constant presence in my life. All is well when I rest in Him. Who would have guessed that I could learn how to better love my Master from how my dogs love me!

    If I claim that Jesus is my Master, then I should trust and love Him with my completely and totally!

One final word, friends. We ask you – urge you is more like it – that you keep on doing what we told you to do to please God, not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance. You know the guidelines we laid out for you from the Master Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 4:1-2 (The Message)