Dealing with predators

Dealing with predators

David said, “The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “Go, and may the LORD be with you.” – 1 Samuel 17:37

1 Samuel 17:32-47

32 “Don’t worry about this Philistine,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight him!”
33 “Don’t be ridiculous!” Saul replied. “There’s no way you can fight this Philistine and possibly win! You’re only a boy, and he’s been a man of war since his youth.”
34 But David persisted. “I have been taking care of my father’s sheep and goats,” he said. “When a lion or a bear comes to steal a lamb from the flock,
35 I go after it with a club and rescue the lamb from its mouth. If the animal turns on me, I catch it by the jaw and club it to death.
36 I have done this to both lions and bears, and I’ll do it to this pagan Philistine, too, for he has defied the armies of the living God!
37 The LORD who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!” Saul finally consented. “All right, go ahead,” he said. “And may the LORD be with you!”

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies– the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
46 Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel!
47 And everyone assembled here will know that the LORD rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. The battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you to us!”

There are countless predators in the world. One of the fiercest is the Harpy Eagle.

The term “Harpy” originates from the Greek word harpyia, conjuring images of the harpies from ancient Greek mythology. These mythical creatures were wind spirits tasked with transporting the dead to Hades or Tartarus. They were depicted with the lower body of an eagle and the head of a woman standing up to six feet tall. This striking imagery inspired the naming of the Harpy Eagle, a bird of prey that boasts a giant wingspan and a unique, almost goblin-like appearance with wings.

The harpy eagle is one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world, native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Unlike your average bird of prey, the harpy eagle is a feathered apex predator. Its impressive talons, comparable in size to bear claws, are among the largest of any raptor. With a wingspan exceeding seven feet, it primarily feeds on sloths and monkeys, snatching them right out of the trees like a terrifying, silent flying Dragon.

This eagle boasts a striking appearance, featuring a distinctive double crest of feathers on its head and a face resembling a scowling gargoyle. Its plumage is mainly dark gray, with a white belly and black-and-white striped legs. What’s most unsettling is its piercing gaze, which seems to size you up as though you could be its next meal.

Flying predators, like eagles and hawks, are key hunters that help maintain ecosystem balance by controlling populations of small mammals, rodents, and insects. Their presence indicates a healthy, biodiverse environment.

REFLECT & PRAY

Matthew 28:20 I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Father, thank You for warning me of the clear and present dangers I face in the fallen world under the domination of the god of this world. Thank You for overcoming the world.

INSIGHT

Rather than being our enemies, birds of prey are vital allies in promoting ecological balance. While they may occasionally challenge livestock or pets, our aim should be living in harmony, benefiting both humans and wildlife. Not so that our non-corporeal enemies and their human cohorts who are out to devour us.

The Bible is rich with imagery, using animals to convey profound spiritual truths. Among these, predators—both literal and metaphorical—are recurring symbols of danger, destruction, and opposition. From lions and wolves to serpents, these figures provide children of the King with powerful lessons about staying spiritually vigilant and relying on God’s protection. By studying the examples of predators in scripture, we can learn to recognize threats, overcome fear, and stand firm in faith.

Lions are mentioned frequently in the Bible, often representing power, ferocity, and danger. One of the most well-known references is in 1 Peter 5:8, which warns, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”

Here, the lion represents the devil—aggressive, persistent, and always on the hunt to lead the children of the King astray. Be alert to spiritual attacks, but never forget that Christ, the Lion of Judah, has already defeated evil. Trust in His victory and stand courageous in the face of danger.

Wolves are another common biblical predator, often used to describe false prophets and false teachers who seek to harm the Father’s people. The Lord Jesus Christ warned His followers in Matthew 7:15, “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.”

Not all threats are obvious. Wolves disguised as sheep typify deception, making it clear that the children of the King must stay discerning and grounded in God’s Word and steeped in sound doctrine to avoid falling victim to lies.

Pray for discernment and test all teachings against the sound doctrine of Scripture. False prophets may appear harmless but can lead entire flocks away from the truth of the word of God.

The serpent is perhaps one of the most infamous predators in the Bible, appearing as the tempter in the Garden of Eden. The serpent’s characteristics—craftiness and deceit—serve as a warning of how subtle and cunning temptation can be. Temptation often appears attractive and reasonable, but it can spiral into sin and separation from God. Stay rooted in God’s Word to resist the serpent’s whispers. If it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t true.

Hosea 13:7-8 compares God’s judgment on rebellious Israel to a lion, leopard, and bear tearing apart their prey. These terrifying metaphors remind us that straying from God’s ways carries severe consequences.

Psalm 91 offers immense comfort to those who seek shelter in the Lord. It promises, “You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent” (Psalm 91:13). This imagery reveals the power God grants His faithful followers to overcome even the most fearsome predators.

Predators often strike when their prey is unaware. Similarly, spiritual attacks can come suddenly and unexpectedly. Jesus tells His disciples to “watch and pray,” emphasizing the importance of vigilance (Matthew 26:41). Stay spiritually awake by maintaining a deep connection with God through prayer, worship, and consistent study of His Word.

Like wolves among sheep, harmful influences can creep into your life disguised as harmless companions or ideas. The apostle Paul warns us in Acts 20:29, “I know that false teachers, like vicious wolves, will come in among you after I leave, not sparing the flock.”

Jesus reminds us to examine the “fruit” of others (Matthew 7:16). Surround yourself with godly people who encourage your walk with Christ rather than pull you away.

The Bible reassures us over and over that the Father is our ultimate protector. Psalms 23 portrays Him as the Good Shepherd who defends His flock from predators, stating, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me” (Psalms 23:4).

We are to trust in God and depend on His strength to shield us from harm and lead us to safe pastures.

Predators in the Bible illustrate life’s challenges, spiritual enemies, and the need for a deep reliance on God and the sound doctrine of Scripture. Whether it’s a roaring lion, a crafty serpent, the lurking wolf, or the silent raptor, these threats encourage the children of the King to stay alert, walk faithfully with the Lord, and trust in His mighty protection.

Be vigilant, do not fear.

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© Dr. H 2025

Sheepdogs and predators

Sheepdogs and predators

I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. – Matthew 10:16

Isaiah 11:6-8

6 In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together; the leopard will lie down with the baby goat. The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion, and a little child will lead them all.
7 The cow will graze near the bear. The cub and the calf will lie down together. The lion will eat hay like a cow.
8 The baby will play safely near the hole of a cobra. Yes, a little child will put its hand in a nest of deadly snakes without harm.

“American Sniper” is an American war film directed by Clint Eastwood, based on the autobiography of Texan Chris Kyle. Kyle, portrayed by Bradley Cooper, has been a skilled shooter since childhood.

Although Kyle dreams of becoming a cowboy, he is destined to be a sheepdog. After the events of September 11, he decides to join the Navy SEALs and become a sniper. He is deployed to Iraq to protect his fellow soldiers. Over the course of four tours of duty in Iraq, Kyle saves countless lives with his exceptional shooting skills, earning him the nickname “Legend.”

Early in the movie, his father, Wayne Kyle, tells him, “There are three types of people in this world: sheep, wolves, and sheepdogs. Some people prefer to believe that evil doesn’t exist, and if it ever darkens their doorstep, they wouldn’t know how to protect themselves. Those are the sheep. Then you have predators who use violence to prey on the weak; they are the wolves. And then there are those blessed with the gift of aggression—an overpowering need to protect the flock. These men are a rare breed who live to confront the wolf. They are the sheepdogs.”

What makes sheepdogs so special?

It all starts with their natural instincts. Breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and German Shepherds were born to work. Sheepdogs protect with skill and devotion. They have a gift for herding that seems almost magical. Their keen intelligence and strong herding drive make them excellent at keeping order. They have an almost sixth sense for spotting danger and responding quickly to protect their pack—whether it has two legs or four.

While instincts go a long way, training turns sheepdogs into ace protectors. Through obedience and specialized training, sheepdogs learn commands, develop discipline, and adapt to different scenarios. For instance, a well-trained sheepdog can herd livestock to prevent them from straying, fend off predators, or work in high-pressure situations.

Sheepdogs are known for their bravery and loyalty. They stand watch over homes, farms, and people, barking to alert you at the first sign of trouble. Their mere presence often deters potential threats like intruders or wild animals. They work tirelessly, often in steep or rugged terrain, without losing focus.

What sets them apart is their unwavering loyalty. They bond deeply with their people, always keeping an eye out for their safety. Their courage and cleverness make them excellent protectors in nearly any situation.

Sheepdogs may have been bred to manage sheep, but their impact goes far beyond the pasture. Whether safeguarding a family, a farm, or strangers in need, these fantastic dogs bring instinct, training, and love together to protect the ones they care about most.

REFLECT & PRAY

Sheepdogs don’t just respond to words—they often follow subtle cues like hand signals or whistles. This makes their ability to react both quiet and efficient, perfect for critical tasks.

Father, you have called me to shepherd those who are my responsibility. Please encourage me to be as faithful and devoted as a loyal sheepdog, not out of compulsion but out of care and kindness.

INSIGHT

Sheepdogs, alongside shepherds, create an unbeatable team for managing and protecting flocks. These remarkable dogs aren’t just helpers—they’re partners. With their natural herding instincts, fierce protective nature, and seamless cooperation with shepherds, sheepdogs are essential for keeping sheep safe and organized.

In the Scriptures, the children of the King are called to share the mission of their Shepherd King. While they aren’t referred to as sheepdogs, they are called to be shepherds.

1 Peter 5:2-4 states:

2 “Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God.
3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead by your own good example.
4 And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor.”

Shepherding embodies loyalty and responsibility. This concept is beautifully expressed in 1 Peter 5:2-4, a passage offering timeless wisdom for anyone in a leadership position. Here, the apostle Peter gives a high calling to leaders, urging them to watch over others with care, humility, and a servant’s heart.

A Heart for service

1 Peter 5:2 begins with a call to “be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care.”
This imagery paints a clear picture of shepherding as stewardship. Shepherds assume responsibility for the needs of their sheep—feeding, guiding, and protecting.

Serving those in your care means prioritizing their well-being. It’s about creating a safe environment where others feel valued and supported. Service-oriented leadership fosters trust and brings out the best in people.

A willing spirit, not grudgingly

The passage urges shepherds to lead “not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be.” Shepherding should not be forced or driven by obligation; instead, it should stem from a genuine care and desire to help and guide others. This willingness establishes the foundation for authentic and compassionate leadership. Their energy and commitment inspire others to follow their example. Assuming the responsibility of a shepherd rooted in duty alone can feel unfulfilling, while a heartfelt approach resonates deeply.

Humility over personal gain

Peter emphasizes that shepherding should not involve “pursuing dishonest gain, but being eager to serve.” Personal ambition has no place in shepherding. Leaders should focus on the needs of those they serve rather than seeking rewards or recognition. It’s about considering the long-term impact on the flock rather than pursuing short-term, transient gains.

Leading by example

1 Peter 5:3 highlights the importance of leading “by being examples to the flock.” A shepherd’s character and behavior set the standard for the flock. If you want others to display compassion, honesty, or hard work, you need to exemplify these traits yourself. When leaders embody what they expect from others, they create a culture of authenticity and accountability.

The eternal perspective

Peter encourages leaders by stating that when “the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of glory that will never fade away.” For the children of the King, this serves as a call to serve not for temporary rewards but for a more profound sense of purpose and eternal dividends.

The wisdom from 1 Peter 5:2-4 is relevant beyond the body of Christ. It applies to various aspects of life. Whether you are leading a team, raising a family, or simply trying to be a positive influence in your community. Peter challenges the children of the King to lead with humility, serve with love, guide with care and sincerity, and live with integrity.

Sheepdogs Protect Sheep

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© Dr. H 2025

All in ∙∙

All in ∙∙

The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. – Matthew 13:44

Matthew 13:44-46

44 The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field.
45 Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls.
46 When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!

The story of the California Gold Rush captivated people across the globe. Those who joined the quest for gold became known as the 49ers. Thousands traveled hundreds, or even thousands, of miles in the hopes of striking it rich. It is estimated that 100,000 people undertook the grueling trip to California. While many were left empty-handed, others discovered immense wealth. With no banks or safety deposit boxes in the remote areas, miners often hid their riches by burying them. To this day, much of that treasure remains unfound.

One remarkable discovery happened in 2013. Dubbed The Saddle Ridge Gold Coin Hoard. It was found in the Gold Country region of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. While walking their dog, a couple spotted part of an old can sticking out of the dirt on their property. When they retrieved it, they discovered it was unusually heavy. Upon opening the lid, they found it was stuffed with $20 U.S. gold coins. They went on to unearth a total of eight cans, with the treasure estimated to be worth $10 million.

When we think of such incredible finds, a question arises: what would you do if you stumbled upon a treasure of great value? Finding treasure has the potential to allow both personal gain and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.

When the man in the parable discovered treasure hidden in a field, he reburied it. Then, with joy, he sold everything he owned to purchase the field. He understood that the treasure’s worth far exceeded anything he had. His decision was driven by the certainty that the cost was insignificant compared to the value of what he would gain (Matthew 13:44).

The Lord Jesus Christ uses this parable to describe the kingdom of heaven. It is a treasure available to everyone. Like the hidden treasure in the field, the kingdom of heaven is of unparalleled worth. It is worth any price; the wholehearted investment of our time, resources, and lives would be minor compared to the value gained.
What is the kingdom of heaven? Throughout history, there have been numerous interpretations. Yet, a kingdom must have three elements — a ruler, a location, and people. Simply put, the kingdom of heaven is where the Father reigns as sovereign King.

The Father’s treasure is priceless. Pursuing Him and His purposes leads us to discover riches far beyond our imagination. The most extraordinary treasure of all is knowing the Father Himself and experiencing the joy of His presence.

Ephesians 2:7 “. . . so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.”

REFLECT & PRAY

To live in a place under the care of a kind, gentle, generous, and just leader is a longing shared by many hearts.

Father, thank You for calling me into Your kingdom. Through Your grace, I can now call You Father as Your child. Please help me follow Your purpose and guide me on the path You want me to go.

INSIGHT

The word “treasure” evokes images of what is truly valuable. Throughout history, burying valuables in the ground has been a common practice, and tales of hidden treasures have captivated people across cultures and generations. The allure of undiscovered riches ignites the imagination and instills a sense of excitement and wonder.

This deep sense of value, wonder, and longing lies at the heart of the parable of the buried treasure. It illustrates the unmatched worth of the kingdom of God, the overwhelming joy of discovering it, and the wholehearted commitment required to claim it as our own.

Imagine a man walking through a field. Perhaps recent flooding or erosion has revealed a treasure long hidden beneath the soil. Without any prior planning or anticipation, he stumbles upon something extraordinary—a discovery so stunning that it will change his life forever.

Joy immediately overtakes him. His heart races at the thought of what lies before him. However, to truly make this treasure his, he understands that there is a cost involved. He cannot simply take the treasure because the field belongs to someone else. To secure this treasure, he must first purchase the field. This realization prompts an urgent response, and he is galvanized into action. He must reorient his priorities and liquidate all his assets. Everything he has—his money, possessions, comforts, and securities—must be sacrificed to acquire the field and, in turn, the treasure. Nothing less will suffice. The field is acquired, and the treasure is secured.

The parable teaches that entering the kingdom of God is not about human effort, intelligence, or skill. The man finds the treasure simply because he is in the right place at the right time. So it is with the kingdom of God. Additionally, opening hearts to receive it is divinely orchestrated. The kingdom of God has always been present; we fail to see it until the King reveals it to us.

Today, we might compare this parable to finding a valuable piece of artwork while shopping at a flea market or secondhand store. One person may see a visually pleasing item at a low price, while another recognizes it as a masterpiece. Some focus on appearances, while others prioritize getting a bargain. However, the wisest are those who focus on lasting value.

The kingdom of God, like the treasure in the parable, is waiting to be discovered by those whose hearts are open. It is not a treasure that dazzles superficially; instead, it requires spiritual discernment to recognize its invaluable significance.

Ask yourself this question: Is there anything in your life so precious that you would willingly give up everything for it? Whatever that is, it is your ultimate treasure. Your treasure holds immense power over your motives, priorities, and behavior.

To find the treasures of the kingdom of heaven, we must seek out what is close to the heart of God. The treasure you seek reveals the loyalty and commitment of your heart. The Lord Jesus Christ said, “Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be” (Matthew 6:21). This connection between treasure and the heart reveals a profound truth: what you treasure most shapes who you are at the deepest level.

Being part of the kingdom of God is the ultimate treasure, unmatched in value. However, the choice to “buy the field” requires more than simply recognizing its worth. It calls for a reevaluation of our priorities and a steadfast commitment to surrender everything we possess in order to fully embrace what God offers.

To some, the cost may seem steep. Yet, the joy of gaining the kingdom and an eternal connection with the Father—far outweighs any sacrifice made.

Your heart is revealed by the priorities you pursue. Charles Stanley writes, “What do you think about most throughout the day? What gets your heart beating fastest and loudest? What do you think you couldn’t live without? Whatever ‘it’ is, it’s your treasure—and nothing but God is worthy of it.” These words serve as both an invitation and a challenge, urging us to evaluate where our true allegiance lies.

When it comes to the Father’s kingdom, are you all in?

¯_(ツ)_/¯4-07-2

© Dr. H 2025

Teddy bear or Grizzly bear ∙

Teddy bear or Grizzly bear ∙

Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who the Holy Spirit controls think about things that please the Spirit. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. – Romans 8:5,7

Romans 6:12-19

12 Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.

16 Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.
18 Now you are free from your slavery to sin, and you have become slaves to righteous living.
19 Because of the weakness of your human nature, I am using the illustration of slavery to help you understand all this.

The story of the Teddy Bear begins with an unexpected act of kindness from none other than President Theodore Roosevelt. On November 14, 1902, Roosevelt embarked on a hunting trip in the wilderness of Mississippi. Despite hours of diligent tracking, Roosevelt and his hunting party had no success in their pursuit of wild game.

Then, one of Roosevelt’s assistants, Holt Collier, located a 235-pound black bear. To ensure a successful hunt, Collier captured the bear alive and tied it to a willow tree, intending for Roosevelt to shoot it. However, when the president arrived and saw the restrained bear, he was appalled. Roosevelt considered the act entirely unsportsmanlike and refused to take the shot. This single moment of compassion became national news as reporters shared the story of the president’s ethical stance far and wide.

Clifford Berryman, a political cartoonist, was particularly inspired by the story. He created a cartoon illustrating President Roosevelt refusing to shoot the poor bear, and it quickly garnered widespread attention.

Among those moved by this simple yet poignant image was Morris Michtom, a Brooklyn candy shop owner Michtom and his wife’s shop was not only a place of sweet confections but also one where they made and sold stuffed animals. Seeing an opportunity, Michtom created three stuffed toy bears inspired by Berryman’s cartoon. Displaying two of them in his shop window, he sent the third to Roosevelt himself, seeking permission to name his new creation “Teddy’s Bear.” Much to the delight of Michtom, Roosevelt agreed. Thus, the “Teddy Bear” was born — a soft, comforting figure that would become a beloved cultural icon, symbolizing kindness, warmth, and compassion.

Over time, the Teddy Bear transcended its origins to represent comfort and innocence, becoming a cherished toy for children and a nostalgic keepsake for adults. Its creation not only reflects Roosevelt’s integrity but also speaks to the profound ways small acts of kindness can leave an enduring legacy.

Interestingly, each person is born with a tad bit of Teddy Bear and a tad bit of Grizzly Bear. These “bears” serve as metaphors for our personalities and choices. The Teddy Bear represents tenderness, kindness, and the capacity to offer comfort and love. It is the part of us that is nurturing and willing to extend compassion not only to others but also to ourselves.

On the other hand, the Grizzly Bear reflects the primal, raw, and often destructive side of human nature. It embodies traits like aggression, selfishness, and unchecked emotion. Grizzly Bears, though strong and resilient, can be dangerous if left uncontrolled, symbolizing the potential for human impulses to dominate our better judgment.

Of course, some people might lean more heavily toward one bear than the other, but both reside within us. The question is, which bear will we allow to lead our lives?

This inner tension between the Teddy Bear and the Grizzly Bear mirrors a more profound spiritual truth. Paul addresses this duality when he speaks of the transformation that occurs when we become children of the King. Ephesians 2:5 says, “He made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved.” When the Father awakens a new spiritual life within us, we encounter a profound shift.

However, this awakening sets up an inward battle — a conflict between two natures. On the one hand, there is the “old self,” often synonymous with the Grizzly Bear, representing our sinful nature and the desires of the flesh. This nature embodies selfishness, pride, and rebellion against God’s will. On the other hand, the “new self,” akin to the Teddy Bear, reflects our spiritual awakening — a life transformed by grace and guided by the pursuit of righteousness.

This internal struggle can feel like a form of spiritual schizophrenia. It’s as though the Incredible Hulk lurks beneath our composed exterior, ready to burst out and take control whenever old temptations or emotions are stirred. Even Paul acknowledged this wrestling in Romans 7, lamenting how the things he wanted to do, he failed to do, and the things he did not want to do, he found himself doing.

Much like the choice between living as a Teddy Bear or a Grizzly Bear, the spiritual battle is one of intentionality. Which nature will you nurture? Will you yield to the old self, driven by selfish instincts, or will you lean into your new life in Christ, allowing the rejuvenating Spirit of God to guide and shape you?

Living as a “Teddy Bear” does not mean forsaking strength but channeling it through kindness, integrity, and grace. It means choosing patience over anger, compassion over judgment, and reconciliation over division. When we live according to our new nature, empowered by the Spirit, we reflect the image of God Himself — a Father who, steadfast in His loyal love, extends mercy and forgiveness to children of the King.

Roosevelt’s moment of compassion reminded the world that even in positions of power, it is not weakness to show kindness. Similarly, we are given daily opportunities to choose which “bear” to embody. By intentionally drawing nearer to the Father and allowing His Spirit to work within us, we can overcome the impulses of the Grizzly Bear and live as Teddy Bears, offering comfort, light, and goodness to the world around us.

REFLECT & PRAY

Romans 7:25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind, I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature, I am a slave to sin.

Father, I long to be a Teddy Bear rather than a Grizzly Bear. Continue the work of taming me that I might be meek and have my “Power Under Control.”

INSIGHT

In the kingdom of God, children of the King can choose to live as Teddy Bears rather than Grizzly Bears. Following the Fall, the human race was contaminated by sin. We are born with a sinful nature, the Grizzly Bear. It seeks to control us and often does. However, when we are born again (John 3:3), the Father imparts a new spiritual nature, the Teddy Bear. These two bears (natures) are constantly at war within us, each striving for dominance. Paul explains:

Romans 7:14-23

14 The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin.
15 I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.

19 I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.

23 But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.

Paul encourages the children of the King to live according to the Spirit and resist the flesh. Romans 6:12: “Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.”

How can we do that? The Father provides abundant examples in the natural world. Bears, for instance, are known for their strength and power. Mama bears are highly protective and caring, displaying ferocity when guarding their young. At the same time, these bears can be gentle and loving when nurturing their cubs. They control their immense strength and power. The Scriptures describe this quality as meekness.

Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

What is meekness? “Meekness is not weakness; meekness is Power Under Control. This word was used to describe a soothing wind, a healing medicine, and a colt that had been broken. In each instance, there is power . . .. But this power is under control” (Wiersbe).

The Greek word often translated as meek is praus. Praus can be summarized in one simple phrase: “Power Under Control.” When referring to animals, an appropriate translation of praus would be “tame.” The word “connotes a unique blend of strength and poise.” Meekness involves “gentle friendliness and consideration, accommodating others’ weaknesses” (Friberg).

When wild animals are tamed, their power is not taken away, but their destructive, independent instincts are restrained. They accept the direction of another and no longer respond with “fight or flight.” Tame animals lose their fear of people.

If a mama Grizzly Bear can demonstrate meekness by controlling her power, so can the children of the King.

This struggle between the two natures — the Teddy Bear and the Grizzly Bear — is ongoing. However, we have the ability to choose which bear we allow to take control.

Paul writes, “The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions” (Galatians 5:17).

All the children of the King grapple with this inner battle. The struggle can be intense and continuous, yet the Father provides the strength for any child of the King to endure and control our Grizzly Bear natures. We are reminded not to judge or condemn one another for these battles. Ultimately, each child of the King stands or falls before the Father Himself.

Paul explains, “Who are you to condemn someone else’s servants? Their own master will judge whether they stand or fall. And with the Lord’s help, they will stand and receive his approval” (Romans 14:4).

Which bear wins?

The one you feed!

¯_(ツ)_/¯4-10-2

© Dr. H 2025

Unworthy belonging ∙∙

Unworthy belonging ∙∙

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your lovingkindness. – Psalms 51:1

Psalms 51:1-7

1 A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet went to him after he had gone into Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy, blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin!
3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment.

6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being and teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Dr. Brene Brown introduced the Shame Resilience Theory (SRT) in her book, I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn’t): Making the Journey from “What Will People Think?” to “I Am Enough.”

Dr. Brown defines shame as “the intensely painful feelings or experiences of believing we are flawed and therefore unworthy of acceptance and belonging . . .. Shame creates feelings of fear, blame, and disconnect.”

According to Dr. Brown, the Shame Resilience Theory has four key elements:

  1. Recognizing shame and understanding our triggers.
  2. Practicing critical awareness.
  3. Reaching out and telling our story.
  4. Speaking shame, as its survival relies on secrecy and silence.

By practicing these four elements, individuals can build and expand their resilience to shame. However, when shame is not recognized or acknowledged, people often default to self-protective defense mechanisms such as fight, flight, or freeze.

David had mastered the art of Shame Resilience. He experienced the profound paradox of unworthy belonging — the idea that, though deeply flawed, he remained a beloved child of God.

After facing the consequences of his moral failures with Bathsheba, David confronted his shame and sin. He acknowledged his guilt openly, deeply shaken by his actions. His response was not to retreat but to call upon the Lord, asking for the mercy only God could provide. Even in his unworthiness, David was confident that he still belonged to the Father God, Who loved him dearly.

Psalm 51 records David’s plea for mercy and compassion:
Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.

This scripture highlights two magnificent attributes of God that help believers strengthen their Shame Resilience — mercy and compassion.

The Hebrew term for mercy, chanan, conveys kindness, graciousness, pity, and consideration. It is often translated as “show mercy” or “be gracious.” Mercy is about not receiving the punishment one deserves.

The word for compassion, racham, is frequently translated as compassion or mercy, but it carries a far deeper nuance. It reflects a “profound awareness of another’s suffering, combined with heartfelt sympathy and a sense of tenderness.” It depicts the “deep emotional connection one has for those who are dear to them” (UBS). It connotes “deep heartfelt feelings of love and empathy.”

David’s appeal rested completely on God’s essence, His core character, and nature of compassion and loyal love. David begged the Lord to show kindness and to extend the forgiveness and loyalty rooted in His steadfast love.

REFLECT & PRAY

Children of the King find themselves living in an extraordinary paradox. They are unworthy because of sin, yet they still belong because of the Father’s immense and unchanging love.

Father, thank You for Your mercy and unconditional, loyal love. I acknowledge that I could never earn or deserve Your forgiveness, yet You freely offer it. I am deeply grateful that I belong to You.

INSIGHT

David’s relationship with the Father was deeply personal, grounded in a covenant that bound them together in an unbreakable bond. He understood that he was part of the Father’s Forever Family — a relationship stronger and more enduring than any human construct. This covenant was not fleeting or conditional; it was akin to a marriage promise intended to endure the tests of time.

What made this bond unwavering was the Father’s loyal love (hesed) and fidelity. His love is not tempered by circumstance or human failings. It is steadfast and relentless, extending forgiveness, kindness, and reconciliation. The Father’s commitment to His children is unshakable — He does not abandon or turn away because of the foibles of our human limitations and weakness. His love persists through every season of their lives, offering comfort and hope to those who seek Him.

Psalm 51 stands as a powerful and timeless example of how to seek forgiveness. David, humbled by the magnitude of his wrongs, pours his heart out to the Father. He offers a prayer that is raw and authentic. He does not hide his guilt or attempt to justify his sins. Instead, he lays everything before the Father with a contrite heart. David does not appeal to God on the basis of any goodness within himself. He knows he is totally unworthy and under condemnation for what he has done. Rather, his appeal is based on Who and what the Father is.

David’s prayer is shaped by the Father’s loyal love and compassion. His plea is infused with confidence in the grace and mercy of the Father. He knew the Father as a person. He knew how wonderful his Father God was and how much He loved him.

Constable asserts that “David appealed to the Lord to cleanse him because of His loyal love and compassion. He knew he did not deserve the Lord’s forgiveness, nor could he earn it. Divine pardon comes to sinners by His grace alone. He asked God to blot out the record of his transgressions, namely sins that go beyond the limits that God has established for conduct.”

The Father delights in forgiving and restoring His children. His love is so profound and unyielding that it overcomes even the darkest guilt and shame. For every child of the King, there will be moments weighed down by remorse, overwhelmed by the realization of sin. But in those moments, there is a promise — a steadfast truth that we can cling to.

The Father’s mercy is unending, and His love never fails. His forgiveness is not a begrudging act but a joyful expression of His loyal character. Through the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, every sin can be cleansed and every heart made whole.

David captures this beautifully in Psalm 51, where he writes, “Cleanse me, and I will be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7). This imagery of purity reflects what the Father offers through His mercy. It is a transformation that goes beyond human understanding — the ability to stand renewed, untarnished by guilt, and fully restored by His grace.

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© Dr. H 2025