Alright, Winston

I travel with a French Bulldog named Winston. I named him after Winston Churchill because he looks grumpy. Kind of like me.

Last week Winston was on his usual perch, my lap, sleeping and doing his best to mess up whatever I was doing on my iPad.

It was time for me to visit the facilities, so I said quietly, “Alright…” Suddenly Winston jumped up and headed for the front door, then back to the cabinet by the sink. His ears were perked up, and he looked at me expectantly.

Mind you, I hadn’t said “walk,” or “treats.” I had merely said, “Alright.” Over the following days I realized that whenever I go to do a new task, get up from my chair, or whatever, I say, “Alright…”

Winston is a smart enough dog that he has learned that word means something is going to happen. It might include food, treats, or walking. He doesn’t know WHAT’S going to happen, he just knows SOMETHING is going to happen, and whatever it is, he’s ready!

I wonder sometimes if I am as ready to move when God speaks as Winston is when I do. I should be, God has always been there for me. Through the highs and the lows of my life He has been there. Whether I find myself beside still waters or in the valley of death, the Good Shepherd has always been with me, providing peace, guidance, and wisdom.

Unfortunately, I haven’t always listened. Invariably, the lack of listening has led to bad decisions, pain, sin, or all of the above simultaneously.

In John 10:27 Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” That’s the key: listen and follow. Listening doesn’t do any good if you don’t follow what God says. Following doesn’t work if you haven’t listened for directions. Listen AND follow.

Let’s all take more time to listen for God to say, “Alright…” and be ready for what’s next. One thing is for sure, it will be a walk with a Savior who loves us, and will lead us to still waters in a chaotic world.