For the Joy of Little Things—Like Squirrels and Squeaky Toys

Life's greatest joys often come wrapped in the smallest packages—a truth your dog has mastered completely.

Watch them spot a squirrel, receive a treat, or pounce on a favorite toy. Their entire being lights up with uninhibited celebration. They don't need grand occasions or expensive gifts to experience complete delight—just simple moments alive with possibility.

We humans often miss this wisdom. We save our joy for milestones. We reserve our celebration for achievements.

Meanwhile, ordinary days slip by unappreciated, their small gifts unopened. But Scripture reminds us that God works through the seemingly insignificant—five loaves that feed thousands, a shepherd boy who becomes king, a Baby in a manger who changes everything.

Your dog knows instinctively what we struggle to remember: that joy is available now, in squeaky toys and familiar walks, in belly rubs and sunny spots.

Their excitement over the simplest pleasures isn't childish—it's profound. It's recognition that life is made of moments, and each one carries its own invitation to delight.

Today, let your dog be your teacher. Let their enthusiasm for small joys remind you to notice what's in front of you—the morning light, a favorite song, a moment of laughter. Because gratitude for small things grows a heart capable of greater joy in all things.

Scripture-Based Prayer:

Lord, thank You for my dog who finds complete joy in the simplest gifts—squeaky toys, treats, and backyard squirrels. Their delight in little things teaches my heart to celebrate more freely. Please continue to provide ways to delight my precious dog.

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." —Psalm 118:24

Help me to approach each day with the same enthusiasm my dog brings to every morning—as a gift full of possibilities, not just hours to be endured.

"Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." —Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)

When I'm tempted to overlook life's simple pleasures waiting for "bigger" joys, let my dog's excitement over little things remind me that You delight in small beginnings and ordinary moments. Help me spend more time with my dog simply enjoying the gifts You’ve given us. Help me to bring joy to my dog too.

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." —1 Thessalonians 5:18

Let me learn from my dog's natural gratitude—how they don't take even simple joys for granted but approach each treat, walk, and game with fresh appreciation.

God of small wonders and daily bread, open my eyes to the gifts hidden in ordinary moments. Thank You for placing this joyful dog in my life—not just for companionship, but as a living reminder to celebrate the squeaky toys, electronic laughing toys and squirrels of life. May their enthusiasm for simple pleasures reawaken my own capacity for wonder. In Your Name, I pray.