My boyfriend always tells me I’m like my dog and my dog is like me.
Paris, my lab-pit mix, came into my life unexpectedly about three years ago. She was an awkward dog with huge ears, long and clumsy legs, and sad puppy eyes that ached for love. Unwanted, she passed from home to home until she ambled up my doorstep.
An awkward puppy being denied love? I thought. Not anymore!
Three years later, she is still my awkward, but happy dog. As I watched her play at Shelby Farms today, I saw more of myself in her than ever before.
Pet parents threw sticks and tennis balls into the lake, and I watched as dog after dog chased after them—exuberant and hungry, and unafraid.
In the mud, I found a discarded tennis ball to throw especially for Paris. I saw the excitement in her eyes, her ears tingling, awaiting the chase.
I threw it into the lake and I watched, expecting her to rocket into the water.
But she did not.
Instead, she hesitated and watched as other dogs crashed into the water, chasing her ball. In that moment it occurred to me when placed in a situation with variables, she bows out. Alone, she knows what to do. Presented with obstacles, she cringes. There was suddenly a timidity in her that I had not before noticed.
It made me sad to see her tip-toe by the edge of the lake, watching other dogs retrieve her ball. I yelled encouragement to her, “Just get the ball, girl—it’s yours!”
I wondered if this is how God often feels for me.
Jamie, I set this up especially for you. This is your ball. All you have to do is claim it, but you’re too afraid. Why do you let your fear stop you from retrieving the gifts I have laid down for you? Don’t be afraid. Don’t let your fear stop you. Jump in! It’s yours!
Last night Scott and I watched one of Saddleback’s sermons. The evening topic was how to avoid obstacles preventing you from following God’s plan for you. First, reverend Rick made us aware of the four pitfalls that could keep us from walking with God:
- Cultural distractions (pleasure, possessions, popularity, profit)
- Voices of doubt
- Tempting shortcuts (ethical, moral, financial, relational, spiritual)
- Discouraging delays
To aid in his example, Rick used the life of Noah. Life is a test; life is about trust. God is seeing how much He can trust us. This life is a temporary assignment. Noah dared to follow God’s plan. From him, we gain four valuable lessons:
- Dare to be different from our culture
- Listen to the voice of God
- Do exactly as God tells you to do
- Refuse to give up on the dream God gives you
Paris and I both could learn from Noah.
Two weeks ago I posted for a transfer to a new location. Two days later I was hired. And in less than two weeks I’ll begin at my new branch.
I was terrified throughout the entire process. Even now I’m nervous. However, with the help of God’s love, I applied. With the help of God’s love, I will transfer. With the help of God’s love, I will start there on November 1st.
I’m not letting fear stop me this time. Through the nerves, the uncertainty, and fear, I’m holding onto God and thanking Him for answering my prayers.
Knowing He is cheering me on while I take this leap will keep me nourished with encouragement. My ears and my heart are open, Lord. I’ll let go of distraction, doubt, and discouragement and hold tight to Your words and love.
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