A Dog and his Master

 But my servant, Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land where-into he went; and his seed shall possess it,” (Numbers 14:24).

Anne smiled when she heard barking coming from outside. She knew the next sound she would hear would be that of Bill’s car pulling into the driveway. Bill was home, and now the whole world knows it. Sam, their golden retriever will make sure of that. Bill came in first, with Sam fast on his heels; barking and wagging his tail. He was happy to see his master.

An hour later Anne looked out the window as Bill went for a quick run before dinner. Sam ran behind his master. When Bill stopped to tie his laces, Sam stopped also. Bill returned an hour later, again with Sam trotting behind him. After dinner Bill sat by the fire to watch television; Sam sat at his feet. Over the weekend, wherever Bill went, Sam was sure to follow.

The believer whose heart is grateful to God for saving his soul is like a golden retriever. He knows his fate is in the hands of his master; he is eager to please him and thus follows him everywhere. The golden retriever stands up for his master, is happy at the sight of his master, and is not ashamed to say it.

He follows his master because his master is kind; his master doesn’t beat him when he messes up, but forgives him. He doesn’t deny him food for chewing on his favorite sneakers; he simply replaces it and teaches him what is right and what is wrong.

 The dog sits at his master’s feet in peace, knowing he will not be kicked out of the way; knowing he will not be stomped on in his master’s wrath. The master speaks kindly to the dog, keeps him inside when it is wet and cold outside, and provides him with shelter and food.

 We wholly follow our God, as Caleb and as a grateful golden retriever dog, despite our situations. We know He will forgive us, provide for our every need and not abuse His authority and dominion over us because of the great love He has for us. He feeds us with His Word and guides us with His Spirit.

 We love our Master because He first loved us. He chose us. He bought us. We will forever follow Him; knowing we will prosper at His hands.