Lucy is so sweet, loving, full of energy, a great companion and she’s my dog! God will use anything to teach you lessons, give you wisdom, and get your attention. I got Lucy as a puppy and if you have potty trained a dog you know it’s a challenge. First, let me say this if you are that person that wants your home to remain orderly, nothing out of place, nothing chewed on, no messes on your cream-colored carpet DO NOT GET A DOG. Getting mad and taking your frustrations out on the fur baby, is unacceptable DON’T DO IT!!!
Teach according to skill level
Training Lucy initially was simple. She picked up instantly on where to go outside and using her training pads in the house. I was thinking to myself this is easy, I got this, I should be a dog trainer (a little pride issue). Well, that quickly changed. All of a sudden she got a case of amnesia and went everywhere but the training pads. You can imagine the defeatist attitude I had, but I called on Jesus and stayed the course in training her.
I went back to the basics. God reminded me she’s a puppy, not a mature dog and it’s my responsibility to meet her where she is. It’s like a new Christian who is learning about Jesus they’re on milk and will grow into solid food. It’s our duty to come alongside those Christians and lovingly share and teach the Word of God on their level. FYI sometimes we need a refresher course on the basics for ourselves.
Feeling unloved
During this time, I had some moments of frustration. I was praying, reading articles, and books on training and it was not going as well as it should. I was a little distant with Lucy, and she picked up on that. My fur baby went to the end of the bed and tucked her tail. I felt horrible because she normally would be all over me. I transferred my disappointment, bad energy, and mood onto her and at that moment she felt unloved. How many times have we made people feel unloved because they’re not meeting our expectations, performing the way we want? How often do we withhold love, mercy, and compassion especially when they are trying? I had to make it right with Lucy and give extra belly rubs and kisses. Oh and yes I said sorry to a dog.
Commitment, investment, and staying the course
God taught me about commitment, investment, and staying the course. I decided to bring Lucy into my life and it is my job to train her into a well-mannered dog. I can’t give up and send her back to the shelter because it’s tough. I’m so grateful God doesn’t throw me away when I’m a challenge, instead, God is longsuffering. I have to invest in Lucy and set her up to succeed. I must get up out of the bed and take her outside no matter what time it is. If I don’t I am telling her it is ok to relieve herself anywhere. I can’t discipline her if she does because I was lazy and didn’t follow through.
Mean what you say and say what you mean, stick to the plan so you achieve the results you desire. You can’t get mad and blame anyone but yourself when you don’t commit to the process. I reward Lucy and uplift her when she completes the task. She’s catching on that she gets treats and over-the-top praise when she goes to the bathroom in the proper place. It’s no different for humans we like recognition and rewards when we do something right as well. We also tend to perform better and become more consistent in our efforts.
Carpet cleaner and washing machine
I wholeheartedly thank God for a carpet cleaner and a washing machine! I was constantly running behind her trying to prevent a mess that I was stressing myself out. I had to realize and accept that messes are going to happen that’s part of being a dog. Instead of being angry be thankful that God provided the resources. I had to make a conscious and continual effort to focus on training and loving Lucy instead of the mess. Doing that truly helped me to relax and enjoy Lucy and our journey together.
In conclusion
Another thing God showed me was discernment. There are times when Lucy goes right on the edge of the training pads (so close but so far away). I don’t reward her but I don’t show her disappointment. I can tell she was aiming for it and came up short. Lovingly, I remind her exactly where to go. Remember to have an open heart so you can assess a situation honestly and justly. God continues to use Lucy to teach me, this is not the last but the first of many Lucy posts. I’m going to go clean the carpet and put a load in the washer with delight in my heart!!!
ACTION ITEM(S)
- What not so obvious thing is God using in your life to teach you the truth?
- Are you taking heed or avoiding it?
- What are you learning?
- Have you made someone feel unloved?
- Do you need to make it right?
Thank you for these gentle and subtle reminders! Got meets us where we are and it helps to keep in perspective how we should handle each other as a society, as a community again thank you for your poignant and impactful blogs
Michelle, Amen sometimes the subtle reminders are the most impactful.
This is a great comparison lesson! And one of the things I love about God is, He will still love on us and reward us even when we don’t do our best or try somethimes.
Lisa, Praise God for His love!!!