Lessons from a German Shepherd

I love my dog. Her name is Marley, and she’s an almost 6-year-old German Shepherd. Honestly, she’s the smartest and most even-tempered dog I’ve ever had. She’s our third shepherd in sixteen years, and every one of them has taught me something different about love, loyalty, and grace.

Our first two shepherds came to us as adults, and they were good dogs, too. One struggled with fear and became reactive around other dogs and even some people. The other had serious heart problems that eventually shortened her life far too soon. We loved them both deeply, challenges and all.

But Marley has been different from the very beginning. We got her when she was only nine weeks old, and from day one she bonded to me in a way I’ve never experienced before. I truly think she loves me more than she loves food—and anyone who knows German Shepherds knows that’s saying something. She simply wants to be with me.

She can be sound asleep on the couch, completely relaxed and comfortable, but if I softly call her name and ask her to come, she will jump up out of her stupor and be ready to go anywhere or do anything I ask without the slightest hesitation.

And the thing that touches me most is that her obedience is not rooted in fear. It comes from love.

She doesn’t slowly drag herself toward me reluctantly. She comes bouncing with joy and expectation.

Watching her sometimes makes me stop and think about my own relationship with Jesus.

How often do I hesitate when God calls me? How often do I respond slowly, reluctantly, or with worry about where He may lead me? Marley reminded me what loving trust really looks like.

I want to love Jesus the way my dog loves me—with joyful obedience, unwavering devotion, and complete trust. Not because I’m afraid, but because I know He loves me perfectly. I want my response to His voice to be eager, willing, and full of expectation, knowing that wherever He leads me is always good.

It’s funny how God can use even a dog stretched out on the couch to teach such a beautiful lesson about faith.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” 📖Deuteronomy 6:5 (NIV)

May 29, 2026 Morning Brew

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