For he will rescue you from every trap
    and protect you from deadly disease.
He will cover you with his feathers.
    He will shelter you with his wings.
    His faithful promises are your armor and protection.

Psalm 91:3-4 (NLT)

Where did the month go? The last post was written the day before we drove to Mesa to check out a rescue dog to see if he was a good fit for us. We had been researching various rescue sites but finally found him on Craig’s list. As we drove to meet him, we tossed around several names but decided to wait until we actually met him. It took about two seconds and he was Rusty, a Havanese with a cream-colored coat and rust accents. We took him home.

In some ways, I feel the blur, like that of a new mother only with a toddler. He raced through the house creating chaos in the wake. He had been abused, likely by a man, because he was very hesitant around Mark. The foster mom found him in the pound, all matted and dirty but longing to get out of the cage. He literally crawled to her once out, fearful and cowering. But after six weeks of care, he was ready for a forever home.

For the record, I am not the dog person — Mark is — but because of his background, Rusty took to me. It’s been a challenge to transfer the affection and devotion to Mark but after 30 days, we are well along that road.

What have I learned from Rusty?

Patience.

Endurance.

Forgiveness.

Acceptance.

Trust.

Exhaustion.

Love.

I wonder what my heavenly Father would say about me? Probably, many of the same words would fit the scenario of my life. He was there in those moments when I was cranky, willful, disobedient, and tempted to give up because it was so hard. God persevered, grabbed my hand,  and returned me to the right path. He offered help and hope.

We discovered that a gentle voice, small hand gestures, enticement with treats, and a bunch of toys helped to gain Rusty’s trust. He learned that we were not going to leave him but would be there as his family. It didn’t happen overnight but patience helped all of us to keep going.

Doesn’t our Heavenly Father offer the same to us? He speaks to us in a still, small voice, opens his hand and satisfies our desires, and promises to never leave us. We are safe and secure in his love. And, oh, how patient He is with us. His love never fails.

A dog is GOD spelled backwards. What a great example of the relationship of complete trust and love that God offers His children when we turn to Him.