Several years ago, I heard the strangest story about a little dog and how it died. While speaking with an acquaintance, we came across a small grave where a dog was buried by its family. She began to tell me how the dog had died. She explained that the dog’s owner was ill and used a powerful morphine patch for pain relief. The patch continuously released medication into his body. The dog, who always lay at his feet, was his best friend. As the man rested his feet against the dog, the morphine was transferred through his feet to the little dog. Unfortunately, the dog overdosed on the pain medication and died.
I had never encountered anything like this before, and I spent a couple of days pondering it. It struck me as strange that a dog could die simply from being near someone who was taking medication. I found it odd that substances from the owner’s body could transfer so easily to the small dog.
As I was reminded of this today, I thought about Mary.
Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what He said. (Lk 10:39)
I am sure you recall the story I am speaking of.
Martha was always busy with her work and cleaning, striving to ensure that everything was taken care of. Her focus was on cleaning and cooking, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him. Jesus said that Mary had chosen the better part and that it would not be taken from her.
This reflection led me to question: whose feet are we truly sitting at? Are we sitting at the feet of our business or ministry? Are we focused on our children and loved ones? Are we consumed by a job that takes up our every day? Or, are we sitting at the feet of Jesus?
Much like the small dog I previously mentioned, the influences we allow into our lives shape who we are. What we immerse ourselves in day after day—whether it’s beliefs, relationships, or activities—will seep into our very being, filling us with their essence. This consistent exposure can either empower us or lead us astray. The way we choose to spend our time ultimately determines where our true strength resides and how we navigate the world around us.
I often hear from people who want to hear from God about various matters, yet they don’t take the time to truly listen to Him. How can you expect to hear if you don’t set aside time to listen?
The man, who owned the dog, consumed morphine daily and in large quantities, which affected his body and the body of the one closest to him. What do you consume every day? If you spend hours watching television, the only knowledge you will gain is about your favorite shows. You won’t clearly hear from God; instead, you’ll only be influenced by the local network.
If you dedicate all your time to your job, focusing solely on work and completing tasks, you may achieve success in your career. However, it may not allow you to experience the peace and power of God. It’s essential to carve out time for God in your life.
It is essential to spend time with God every day. What you genuinely seek is what you will find.
Take some time today to sit at the feet of Jesus. Choose what is truly valuable. Set aside time to talk to Him. Don’t ask for anything or bring Him your list of needs; just engage in conversation. Take a moment to listen to what He has to say.
Prayer time is good, however, if we spend every moment of our time telling God what we need and walk away we are truly missing something valuable. We must take time to wait and listen for the sound of His voice – find out what He wants to say instead of giving him our demands and saying “amen.”
God desires a relationship with you. If you want to live a truly successful life, seek God every day. If you want a successful business, seek God. If you want a successful marriage, seek God. Everything you need is found in Him. “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His way of doing things, and all these good things will be added to you.”
He is waiting for you today. Stop whatever you are doing, sit at His feet, and say, “God, I just want to hear Your voice today. Speak to me; I have time to sit and be with You. I wait upon You.”
Amen, exactly what I needed to read today. Thankyou.