I wanted to give a short Part II follow up to the earlier post on practical wisdom.  I think another source of knowledge and wisdom that God provides, that I have a tendency to overlook at times, is books written my experts.  I have a friend who once told me that whenever she is doing something new or working on a particular area of her character, she will read a book about it at the same time, for inspiration and insight.  For example, if she was fasting, she would read God’s Chosen Fast.

Now, I am learning to apply book technique to a lot of different areas and new things I want to learn more about.  For example, I am taking my responsibilities as a puppy owner very seriously.  I think when I first saw Scout, after “He’s so cute,” the next words out of my mouth were, “I’ve gotta get a book.”

Books can in no way replace the wisdom, knowledge, and guidance that the Lord provides, but I believe he has also provided us with people who have wisdom and insight in certain areas, and it is wise to learn from those people!  Yesterday, I hit the bookstore and purchase two great puppy books: The Puppy Whisperer and Guide to Raising a Puppy.  I am already skimming, reading, and learning.  I believe that all of God’s creation (including puppies and other animals) proclaim that HE IS, and it is fascinating learning more about God’s creative design in animals.  As silly as this may sound, I think that having a puppy is also teaching me more about unconditional love.  Right now, Scout is very sick, and has been for several days.  He can’t do anything for me, and even though hubby and I gave him a bath last night, he is a dirty, stinky, sickly little guy today.  And yet, I love him.  I am normally kind of squeamish around all things gross, but I have no fear of puppy fluids right now, and I don’t care that he’s a mess–I just want him to be healthy.  This helps me put into perspective all of the times that I am a mess and hesitate to go to God.  Just a few more thoughts on puppies and practical wisdom for you…now, I’d better get back into my book.

p.s.  Scout is going to the vet first thing in the morning.  No one is available on Sunday.