“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12 NLT
Teaching a dog to wait can give the master a great advantage. For example, Famous is pretty good about following commands that keep him from rushing out the front door, crossing busy roads, or leaving a secure spot. This communication gives him a layer of safety and gives me an extra layer of control.
A similar command he knows is “leave it.” This can pertain to roadkill, mushrooms, or neighbor’s trash. Perhaps it is best demonstrated when he receives a treat. As tempting as the packaged morsel is, he will not touch it if I present it to him and command him to “leave it.” Even if I leave the room, he waits for me to return and say “take it” before he gobbles it up.
Where we place our hope will govern the fulfillment we either do or do not find in life. The purpose we long for cannot be found in the fleeting things of this world. Sometimes, this realization comes too late. However, an abundant life is the reward of placing your hope and trust in the living Lord.
Turn my longing, Lord, away from the material things that will eventually pass away and to the joy that only You can bring.
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