Best in Show

Excitement filled the event center on the day of the dog show. Behind the scenes was a whirlwind of activity. Owners washed and groomed their prize dogs, making sure their coats gleamed, every hair in place. Some partners had done this so many times, they knew exactly what to do. For others, it was their first time at the show. Still, nervous excitement was evident in everyone.

Months of hard work had led to this day. Intensive grooming. Good nutrition to obtain optimum health. Many hours of training to perform before the judges. Best in show doesn’t happen by chance—and the competition is fierce.

Various breeds were led onto the floor, one at a time. The judges inspected them carefully, comparing them to the other dogs in the ring and to the standard for their breed. It was apparent quickly that some weren’t going to make the grade, but others stood out immediately, both for their beautiful form and for a certain aura that made them shine.

The judges watched as the handlers put their dogs through their routines, trotting around the ring. Nerves were evident, and some didn’t display as well as anticipated. Others did far better than expected, the countless hours of training paying off.

Then came the nail-biting moment when the winners were announced. The crowd cheered loudly as proud owners congratulated their dogs.

In our Christian lives, we can’t expect to be best in show without putting in hard work. Becoming more like Christ isn’t easy. We need intensive grooming to repent of and resist the sin and impurities in our lives. We need the right nutrition—countless hours in God’s Word—to achieve optimal spiritual health. God must train us and mold us into his desired form.

God mentions some of his winners for us in the Bible. Job, whom he defined as a perfect and upright man. David, a man after God’s own heart. Abraham, who was called a friend of God. These winners were not perfect, and they only succeeded through their Lord. That put them in God’s best in show—and they are inspiring examples of what we can become in Christ.

Lord, I want to become what you desire for me—and yet I often fall short of that. I get sidetracked by life. I realize that it takes consistent effort for me to be ready to stand before you. Give me a firm commitment to study your Word. Groom me so my life is clean and gleaming for you. I want to become more like you each day. Train me and mold me. I would love to be one of your best in show—not for my glory, but so others can see you in me.

Paws to think:

What specific steps can you take to become a woman after God’s own heart?

Did you know:

Every year, during Westminster Week, the Empire State Building partakes in the celebration by lighting up in purple and yellow—the official colors of the Westminster Dog Show.

For more devotions like these, check out 52 Devotions for Dog Moms .