Yesterday was our weekly hike date, but it was a bit unusual.  We had a couple of light snowfalls over the previous weekend, and the temperatures had remained sub-freezing all week.   That being the case, there was still some snow and ice dotting the landscape around us, but we knew the surrounding areas weren’t bad at all.

Unfortunately, the area we had planned to hike had gotten considerably more snow than we had.  The winding roads were white and icy, and when we arrived at our destination, we discovered the trails were buried under at least three inches of snow.  Determined to make the best of the situation, we bundled up in the appropriate layers, cut our planned route in half, and set off into the white wilderness.  All in all, it was a pleasant hike, but boy, was it cold!

Since we were among the few who dared to be out in the weather, we allowed Tess to roam off-leash for the entire hike.  She loves the added freedom and does a wonderful job of staying close and minding our calls.  As we neared the parking lot, she ran ahead a bit and quickly returned, followed by a large German shepherd puppy.  His head was bigger than Tess.

At first, they sniffed each other and played a bit, but before long, the puppy started getting rough.  Tess is a tough girl, but she doesn’t enjoy rough play.  After a moment, she tucked her tail and began seeking a way to escape from the bully.  Jason and I saw her distress and tried our best to get to her, but hiking uphill in the snow is not the easiest or quickest way to travel.  By the time we reached the top of the climb, she was completely rolled over on her back in surrender to the bigger dog, but the rough pup wouldn’t take the hint.  He continued to paw and nose at her, and poor Tess was trembling in fright.

When Jason finally reached her, he wiggled his way between Tess and the pup and scooped our terrified terrier into his arms.  The puppy continued to jump and snap playfully at Tess, but Jason cradled her close to his heart and sheltered her from the unwanted attention.  At this point, the owners of the other dog finally realized what was going on and called their pup to them.  Tess was unharmed but quite startled and out of sorts, so Jason carried her the rest of the way to the car.

This morning, as I replayed the situation in my mind, I realized that I’ve been in Tess’ position before.  I’ve been attacked by an enemy far bigger than myself and felt I had no choice but to roll over in surrender.  But just like the pup, my enemy refused to accept my defeat.  Instead, he pressed on, aggravating and frightening me until all I could do was look around for help.

Then, my Master stepped in, pushed the bully aside, and lifted me in His strong arms.  He cradled me to his chest and protected me from the continued assault of my enemy.  He carried me to my destination and settled me into a place of comfort and peace.

The enemy is a bully.  It’s not enough for him to terrify us or even defeat us.  He continues on and on, seeking to distract or discourage us.  But fortunately, those of us who are saved can find shelter in the everlasting arms of Christ.  He will protect and console us.  He will defend us against more attacks.  He is so loving and gentle with us.  I, for one, am so glad I belong to Him.

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. - Psalm 138:7