Boundaries

We have a wonderful, loving Labrador who brings great joy to the family. When she was a young dog (we didn't get her until she was about 16 months old) I worked with her to show her the boundaries of our property. We have an underground fence and we put flags around the fence line and she quickly learned where she could go and where she could not. At first, she had to learn what was meant by that discomfort she felt when she got too close to the line. Early on, she would occasionally break through, deciding that the risk was worth it, but then she would have trouble deciding how to get back home. She would wait outside the border for me to take off the collar and safely lead her back home.
I was thinking about this when I watched Bella romp around the back yard. She has learned from my teaching where she can go and stay safe. All she knows is that within our boundaries, she has freedom to play, eat, drink, and rest. She has a pretty good life. She doesn't realize that crossing the boundaries puts her in danger of being hit by a car, being in the presence of wild animals, or being tempted to snap/bite passersby. She is being protected by her owner and friend. When I come home, she is so excited to see me and spend some time with me.
God has given us directions (commandments), boundaries (statutes), and His viewpoint (testimonies). He knows we need protection from things we cannot see or contemplate. Within His boundaries, I have freedom to roam and have all the provisions I need. Sometimes, I take the risk and cross the fence, wondering how to get back home, but He is always there to lead me back across safely.
I pray that I can be as happy to spend time with my God as my dog is to spend time with me. Her unconditional love and affection only mimics the love He has for me.

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