Puppy Love

“It’s like you two saved each other”

Someone commented after noticing my relationship with my precious little dog Thunder.  Originally rescued from the streets and later adopted by a missionary friend of mine, Thunder is terrified of everything.  Ironically she is terrified of thunderstorms as well!  Yet when she is with me, she is happy, cuddly, and loyal.  We formed an immediate attachment and bond.  She follows me everywhere!

In the five months that I’ve been at CMA since my sister’s death, Thunder has been a constant presence and comfort in my life.  When I isolated myself, she was always there for me.  I spent moments crying with her or stroking her fur while I wrestled with God.

One day this past week, I had a very difficult day and was sobbing while hugging Thunder for hours.  During my moment of crisis, this verse from Psalm 16:8, came to me.  “I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”

Almost immediately after I read this verse, a thunderstorm rolled onto campus and it started pouring down rain.  Of course, Thunder started trembling and shaking

uncontrollably!  Immediately the roles were reversed and I started comforting her and stroking her fur.  Suddenly, the image of ‘I will not be shaken’ had a whole new meaning.  As I sat there watching Thunder tremble in fear, I suddenly knew that God was teaching me something through my relationship with Thunder. 

How many times am I shaking and overcome by my fears?

No matter what I’m going through, I cannot be shaken because God is on my side and is always comforting me.   He wraps me in his arms and is protecting me. 

I have been meditating on this verse all week.  God gave me this verse for a reason during my time of need.   I’m so grateful for the blessing God has given me in Thunder.  She is the best therapy dog!

 I will not be shaken.