Protective Sugar

Being wise is better than being strong; yes, knowledge is more important than strength.

MANY WORDS COULD HAVE BEEN used to describe Sugar: sweet, self-sufficient, lazy, and even-tempered. The tan and white dog showed up one day for dinner at the Clair family’s house and never left.

But the word ten-year-old Gary—the oldest of six children—would have used to describe his favorite dog was friend. Gary had found a kindred soul.

The two played together, explored together, and took long walks together.

One day, after a particularly long expedition in a nearby forest, the two of them were relaxing on the porch when Gary’s grandma popped her head out the door.

“Gary, I need you to run to the store for me. Here’s money and my list.”

Gary looked at Sugar. “Are you coming with me?” Sugar flopped onto her side. “Okay, enjoy your nap. I’ll see you in a little while.”

After walking the few blocks to the store and purchasing the items on his grandma’s list, Gary began his short walk home.

“Hey!” a voice shouted.

Gary’s stomach clenched as he recognized the voice of his elementary school nemesis, Eddie.

Gary and Eddie had been in the same class each year since kindergarten. And Eddie had made it his mission to pick on, fight with, and generally aggravate Gary every day.

“I’m gonna get you!” Eddie yelled, running toward Gary.

Gary clutched the grocery bags to his chest and started running. He knew he didn’t stand a chance against Eddie’s fists, but what Gary lacked in strength he made up for in speed.

As Gary got within half a block of his house, he spotted Sugar on the front porch. She hadn’t moved.

“Sugar!”

Sugar’s normally floppy ears shot straight up, and she leapt from the porch. Suddenly, Sugar was between Gary and Eddie, baring her teeth and growling.

Gary’s eyes grew wide. He took a step back from Sugar. He had never seen his dog look so fierce.

“Call off your dog,” Eddie squeaked.

Sugar didn’t let him say another word. Instead, she started chasing him.

After finding his voice again, Gary called his dog back. To his surprise she obeyed.

“Wow, girl,” Gary said, rubbing her back, then sitting down beside her. “That was . . . You were . . . Wow! Thanks.”

The next day at school, Eddie stopped Gary in the hall.

“I’m not done with you,” he threatened. “You’re not always gonna have your dog with you, you know.”

Gary thought for a minute, then smiled.

“Maybe not, but now she knows your face and your scent. You’d better remember that.”

Apparently Eddie did, because he never bothered Gary again. All thanks to a wise dog who understood that real strength isn’t determined by the labels people give you but by the actions you take when it really matters.

PAWS & PONDER . . .

How is wisdom better than strength? Have you ever personally experienced this truth? According to Proverbs 2:6, “the LORD grants wisdom.” How are you pursuing wisdom in your life?

Paws & Pray

Lord, sometimes I rely on my own strength in situations instead of asking for your wisdom. You are the author and supplier of wisdom. I want to learn from you how to react wisely, even to defend and protect others if the opportunity arises. Direct me to your Word and teach me how to be wise in all aspects of my life.