Therefore, it was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and temptation, he is able to help us when we are being tempted.—Hebrews 2:17-18 NLT
The story (author unknown) is told of a farmer who had some puppies he needed to sell. He made a sign advertising the pups and posted it in his yard. Shortly after, a boy showed up in response to the sign. “Mister,” he said, “I want to buy one of your puppies.” “Well,” said the farmer, “these puppies cost a good deal of money.” The boy reached deep into his pocket, he pulled out a handful of change and held it up to the farmer. “I've got thirty-nine cents. Is that enough to take a look?” “Sure,” said the farmer. The farmer whistled and called,”Here Dolly!” From the doghouse and down the ramp ran Dolly followed by four little pups. The little boy’s eyes danced with delight. As the dogs approached, the little boy noticed something else stirring inside the doghouse. Slowly another little pup appeared, but this one was considerably smaller. The little pup began hobbling toward the others, doing its best to catch up. “I want that one,” the little boy said, pointing to the runt. The farmer knelt down at the boy's side and said, “Son, you don't want that puppy. He will never be able to run and play with you like these other dogs would.” The little boy stepped back from the fence, reached down, and rolled up one leg of his pants revealing a steel brace running down both sides of his leg. Looking back up at the farmer, he said, "Mister, I don't run too well myself, and that puppy needs someone who understands.”
Not one of us is perfect. Everyone has flaws and weaknesses. Some are more visible than others, but we all have them. Fortunately, like the boy who chooses the pup, we have a Savior who knows and understands our feelings and our weaknesses and still chooses us to be His friends and children! And, in response, he wants us to demonstrate our love to one another!
If you are one who struggles with your own flaws and shortcomings, today, take comfort in the knowledge of God’s love for you and then, share that love with someone else! Remember, the world is full of hurting people that are looking to connect with others who understand.
**********************************
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt and was taken from Today's Home Word, a parent's resource email from a site devoted to Encouraging Parents and Building Families. A very nice link Diana had at the bottom of her post one day! Thanks Diana!
(`'•.¸(`'•.¸¸.•'´)¸.•'´)
*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
(¸.•'`(¸.•'´`'•.¸)`'•.¸)
17 comments:
I truly think we are all a "runt" in one way or another and God loves us as though we were the best. Amazing grace how sweet the sound!!!!
Susan
What a wonderful devotional! Made me cry!
I love this! Thank you so much Leigh Ann!
What a great story!! The runts are always a little toughter in spirit!
:) They never give up even though they have every reason to do so!
I needed this today. Thanks!
Boo hoo! This one totally made me cry. Ohhh, what a great reminder today! Thank you so much, Leigh Ann. Another example of why I love your blog so much!
Thanks for that. I've been feeling rather "runtish" lately. I tend to beat myself up about things and dwell on my shortcomings sometimes. This was a nice reminder.
Great post and a real blessing. Leigh Ann, I stopped by to tell you that you inspired me. I started another blog to put my recipes on to share with others. It is called Connie's Kitchen Delights. Stop by sometime and visit if you get the chance. connie from Texas
"Remember, the world is full of hurting people that are looking to connect with others who understand"
Amen!!
i love these devotionals. i'm glad you do, too.
i was reminded, while reading this story, that God can use anything and everything in our lives to His glory. what we may think of as ugly or unuseable can be a beautiful thing that God uses to minister to others.
What a beautiful story, thanks for sharing! I find myself linking to her link of the days all the time too.
0:) Amber
That was great. I had tears in my eyes. Thanks for sharing that!!
What a lovely post..Glad I found your blog today!
Amen, sister! Thanks for including this one today!
K
Great devotional. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Leigh Ann. God can use anyone to His Glory. We don't have to be the smartest, fastest, most beautiful. He knows how and when to use us. I have seen that story lived in real life in a very miraculous way!
BTW--Thanks for the comment on my blog. Bring a Pepsi--I hope I can make this little idea of mine work the way I think it can! We'll see--Nothing ventured, nothing gained!
You've been given an award on my blog! Thank you for this post!
Hugs, Tamara
www.TrainingHearts.com
Post a Comment