Encourage Me: Doggone It

Dogs have been a part of the life of my wife (Bobbi) and me since we were young. They are part of my world now as a husband and father (in his fifties) because they tend to have a calming effect as they are stroked. Our three uniquely-individual Chihuahuas (Chico, Rosco, and Lola) have an unconditional love for our family that can make the worst day turn out all right.

Two of my favorite dog plaques ever surround the doorway leading to the lower level of our tri-level split home. At the top, are the words, “Dogs welcome; People tolerated.” (This plaque came from Meijer’s while I was employed their as a Greeter.)

To the right of the door frame you will read, “Dogs are like potato chips. You can’t have just one.” (This plaque was purchased at an Amish gift shop on our way to visit and check out Youth with a Mission in Akron, OH, on my daughter, Allena’s, nineteenth birthday.) With our three canine children, this saying has definitely proved true in our household.

The Bible speaks about many of the characteristics that make canines who they are. Dogs bark (Exodus 11:7), lap water (Judges 7:6), consume human food (Matthew 15:27), lick (Matthew 15:27), and eat their own vomit (Proverbs 26:11).

If you are wondering if the Bible has any spiritual lesson related to canines, I’m glad you were curious. Proverbs 26:17 (NLT) says, “Interfering in someone else’s argument is as foolish as yanking a dog’s ears.” That visual is something a dog lover has seen or experienced. I would restate today as “putting yourself into someone’s problems (unless they ask you to) will result in a lot of emotional pain for you (or a world of hurt).” No matter what kind of animal you are connected to; we can all agree on the above spiritual wisdom.