I Want to be the Person the Dog Thinks I Am

I saw that quote this week and it made me laugh. Any dog person would understand! I have a sweet dog named Chai, like the tea, who thinks I am wonder women! She thinks I give the best belly rubs, play the best games, and am the most beautiful (even without makeup on). My husband laughs because Chai looks at me with adoration. When I talk to her, I have her undivided attention! She literally gives me eye contact and perks her ears to let me know she is listening. When just she and I are home, I will perform concerts for her. I think she enjoys these the most! She gets so excited, wags her tail and gives me standing ovations.

This quote though made me think a little deeper. I think I have it backward. It should be, “I want to be the person God thinks I am.” So who does God think I am? Well, first and foremost I am God’s daughter. John 1:12 says, “But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become the children of God.” (Others: Romans 8:16, 1 John 3:1)

If that is not enough, God also refers to himself as Abba or Father. I am a child of the King! I am royalty … a Princess to be exact! When I think about this I always feel unworthy, but that is also backwards (why are we so hard on ourselves?). God, surprisingly, thinks very highly of me.

Psalm 139: 17-18a

How precious are your thoughts about me, Oh God! They are innumerable! I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand!

What an encouragement! My Father thinks I am pretty great! No matter my behavior, or attitude, I will always be His Daughter. He will always love me and I want to make Him proud! What a challenge and encouragement!

Michelle Heriford