Dog Sense

I have two puppies, Sammy who is 5 years old and Boo who is 12 weeks young. First thing every morning I take them outside to our large yard for a potty break and to expend some energy before we start our day.

When we first brought Boo home, he would never venture too far from me. It did not matter where we were, in the house or outside, he would stay close to my feet. If he did stray too far, any noise, or sudden movement (like Sammy whizzing past us like a flash of white light) Boo would come running (hmm, actually more like half running, half hopping and falling all over the place) and sit right on my feet, not wanting to go any further. I was his safe place…he knew I was there to help him, protect him, calm him and love him.

Now at 12 weeks, he is getting braver. This morning he was all over the yard, following Sammy and trying to keep up. Sniffing everything Sammy sniffed, and marking every spot Sammy marked (it’s a dog thing). I was pleased that he felt he could venture out a bit and join the big dog. I chuckled as I watched Boo trying to run as fast, hop as far, bark as loud, and stop every now and then to just sit and catch his breath.

But then, another dog from our neighbors yard barked and Boo came rushing back to my feet. Back to his safe place. He didn’t run to Sammy. He didn’t run to hide under the back porch chair. He didn’t run to the back door scratching to get in…He came to me, at my feet and sat down. Boo knows me well enough to trust me and realizes that I am the best place, the safest place for him when he is anxious or fearful.

I thought as I watched Boo sit so peacefully at my feet, even though the other dog (and Sammy) were still barking…. why I don’t always show that kind of trust in the One who is my safe place. God’s Word says: He will never leave us or forsake us. He wants to gather us the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings for protection. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

So, If I know all that…and I do. If I say I believe, which I do…then why, when I am anxious or fearful, or troubled…do I quickly run to my friends, or hide in my own thoughts and solutions, or go scratching at some secular answer.

Boo reminded me this morning that it is always best to run to the best Safe Place first. To surrender my fears, anxiety and struggles to Him and sit quietly at His feet where I will find peace, comfort and rest.
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