“We do not train a dog to make them a robot. We train so we can afford them freedom.”
If you know me, you know I love dogs. And, well, by virtue of being on this site you’ve figured that the Bible and my relationship with God encompass my life. When I saw this quote on my social feed, my mind went to God before it thought dog. It seemed like such an obvious truth that I actually expected it was a Christian post and not a dog ad.
God designed us for freedom. He gave us free will so that we can love Him. But unbounded freedom is dangerous. We don’t let a puppy run in the front yard because he might be hit by a car. He needs to learn boundaries. Until then, he must stay on a leash. Training will give him freedom.
God has given instruction on how to live. If I’m willing to let the Spirit teach me, if I train my heart and mind, I can live in greater freedom. It allows me a life with fewer boundaries. My restraints are no longer external regulation but Spirit-led discernment.
I want my spirit to be so well trained that I react instantly in a way that honors Him. I want to hear and obey His voice, even in a whisper. Having yielded to the Master’s command, I will engage the world with confidence and the freedom His training brings.
Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 1 Peter 2:16
