When You Can’t Hear the Call
Marley and Gunner are best friends and constant trail buddies. Gunner belongs to my nephew and his family next door, but he spends most days with us, exploring the woods and fields like he’s part of the pack.
Most of the time, both dogs wear e-collars, which let them run free but still respond when I need to call them back. Marley, being mine, is tuned in to my voice. A quiet word or a tap on the pager button, and she’s by my side. Gunner, on the other hand…not so much. He means well, but he’s easily distracted—and has a nose for trouble. Dead things. Poop. You name it. If it’s gross, Gunner’s rolling in it.
After a couple of back-to-back rolling disasters (always right after his bath, of course), Gunner lost some freedom. He’s now on a leash when we walk the trails. He doesn’t love it—but until he learns to respond to the call, it’s the safest and cleanest option for everyone.
And that got me thinking…
Sometimes we’re like Gunner. We get caught up chasing what seems fun or harmless, ignoring the quiet call that’s trying to protect us. God’s voice—through Scripture, prayer, or a gentle nudge in our spirit—is calling us away from what we don’t even realize is dangerous or damaging. But when we don’t listen, we can find ourselves tangled in the consequences and wondering why we feel restricted.
God doesn’t leash us out of anger—He lovingly reins us in for our own good. His desire is always to draw us closer, to teach us to hear His voice, and to help us walk in greater freedom; the kind that comes from trust and obedience.
So maybe today’s a good day to check in. Are we listening for His voice? Or are we nose-down in distractions, heading straight toward a mess?
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NIV)
About Terri Edwards
Hi guys! I’m the content creator behind EatPlant-Based and a licensed Food for Life instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. I’m passionate about sharing healthy recipes and tips to help others care well for their health and the bodies God has given us. I’m so glad you’re here! Read More…
June 10, 2026, Morning Brew
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