Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:6–18
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13–14)
Drover suffers many discomforts and indignities. Fleas nibble at his hide. Ticks burrow into his flesh. Mites pester his ears. Flies buzz around his head. Mats form in his fur. Sometimes when
he sticks his smelly, panting muzzle into the man’s face, begging for a bit of recognition, he is rebuffed for all his good intentions. However, none of these inconveniences dampen his enthusiasm for each new day or his exuberance for living. He refuses to hold a grudge. When the man walks to the barn, Drover is with him, dancing in ecstatic circles, panting excitedly, wagging his body from head to tail. He never seems downhearted or discouraged by the trials of living a dog’s life.
Perhaps we pampered humans could learn something from Drover. How often do we become frustrated and upset when our day goes all backward and wrong? How grouchy do we grow when we don’t feel well? How bitter are we when we suffer mistreatment or indignity? How discouraged do we get when we are misunderstood or falsely accused? How much do outward circumstances affect our Christian joy?
Drover will live his brief life and someday die like a dog. His understanding is limited, and his perspective is temporal. Our lives also may be brief, but our understanding is broad and our future is eternal. With the Lord as our strength, we can rise above life’s setbacks and live our lives with godly joy.
From Paws on My Porch, by Gary Miller
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Used by permission