Was I Following You, Lord?

The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him...                                                   

 Psalm 37:23

My long-time ministry was ending. Following prolonged prayer, I believed God was guiding me to train my puppy, Duke, to be a Therapet. Therapet dogs, alongside their masters, visit schools, hospitals, and many other places. Training would require much time and hard work, but I was excited about this new ministry.

At eight months old, Duke earned his Canine Good Citizenship certificate. By age two, he had passed all necessary training, and we entered the Therapet class. However, Duke proved he wasn’t ready. I continued working with him for a year, re-enrolled in the training, and this time, Duke passed. He finished top dog in the class.

Next, Duke had to pass a temperament test. He was to perform his skills obediently while encountering stressful situations. This test helps ensure non-aggressive behavior in dogs. Duke became so nervous during the test he wouldn’t obey my commands. Those performing the test encouraged me to try again later.

I had seen Duke’s nervousness repeatedly in public places. After prayer and counsel from my trainer, I came to a difficult conclusion: I would enjoy the Therapet program, but Duke never would. So, I withdrew him from the program. He’s now a contented, obedient boy at home.

After withdrawing from the program, questions flooded my mind. Was I following God’s guidance or not? Was the Therapet program my plan and not God’s? If God was guiding me, why didn’t we succeed? I later concluded I had followed God’s direction. That training presented opportunities for me to display my faith. No, Duke didn’t become a Therapet, but God accomplished good in me and perhaps in others.

As followers of Jesus, we are to pray, seek God’s guidance, and go forth in the direction He leads. Yet, God alone fully knows His plans for us. He is trustworthy and will accomplish His good purpose, even when His plans are not what we expect.

Father, help us obediently follow and fully trust your plans.

 Jan Burkhart