I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phil 4:13

What’s so redeeming about a dog that has a head structure that allows a capacity for biting you while breathing at the same time? On the surface one may wonder why so many people would choose the English Bulldog as their favorite. Senior citizens, young children, universities, a prominent truck manufacturer, Winston Churchill, fiery Pastor John Hagee, and yours truly are among them.

The Bulldog, to the best of our knowledge, had its origin in the British Isles. The name “bull” was applied because of the dog’s use in the sport of bull baiting, which was extremely cruel. The event took place in an arena or amphitheater to the amusement of a blood thirsty crowd. The original Bulldog had to be very ferocious and so savage and courageous as to be almost insensitive to pain. Smashed teeth and broken bones were the usual results of a bulldog who latched onto the nose of a bull, was thrashed about, and refused to let go.

Around 1835 dog fighting as a sport became illegal in England. Therefore, the English Bulldog had outlived his usefulness and his days seemed numbered. Dog lovers, who felt deep disappointment at the passing of the breed, took on the task of preserving it. They proceeded to eliminate the undesirable fierce characteristics and to preserve and accentuate the finer qualities. Within a few generations, the English Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens, minus its original viciousness.

The transformation of the nature of the English Bulldog has an interesting parallel to what the Bible describes for a person in being “born again.” The unique difference is the Bulldog relied on human handlers to retrain them, so we may be justly proud of the Bulldog we know today; realizing their greater value as trusted companions. We, as believers in Christ, have had to rely on God (The Champion from above) by repenting of our sins and asking His Holy Spirit to enter our hearts to redevelop us by His Divine nature from within.

Just as the English Bulldog went through years of reconditioning and didn’t become a trusted companion overnight, we too as “born again” believers are a work in progress. What’s hopeful in all of this is the choice each of us has before us: We can continue to bite until we are out of breath in our unforgiveness and sinful ways, or let go in repentance and let God handle us His way!!!

Have a great and life-filled week!!

2 Cor 5:17; Eph 2:8-10; Phil 2:13