Wrapped In His Presence

Wrapped In His Presence: Keeper is Anxious

If you’ve ever had a pet, you’ve witnessed moments where animals seem to mirror human emotion. They have personalities all their own—some are athletic and focused, others playful and mischievous. Some crave constant affection, while others securely nap the day away. Yet no matter their temperament, their Creator designed them with a deep need to love and to be loved by their master.

Our home has rarely been without dogs. For over a twelve-year period, we had two fur children, Kai our oldest was a Sheltie and Keeper, the younger by four years was a Mini Australian Shepherd. Keeper’s coat was color classified as blue merle, and her eyes were a striking blue gray. But like most of us she has physical flaws—her toes turn outward, and her coat, meant to be thick and full, was thin and short for her breed. Yet like so many of us, Keeper battled anxiety.

It appears suddenly. One moment she’s sleeping peacefully or playing with Kai; the next, she’s trembling and pressing as close to me as she can. Sometimes, the episodes strike in the middle of the night. Both dogs will be resting quietly when Keeper begins howling or crying in distress. We consulted a veterinarian— the result was no physical ailment could be found. I read books, blogs, and behavioral guides, searching for solutions. Still, the question remains: Why does she fall into fear when she is safe, secure, and loved?

Her fear has no visible cause—it seemed to well up from within. And that’s so very human, isn’t it? One minute, life feels secure; the next, our peace unravels. Without warning, fear creeps in. Sometimes it’s rooted in real hardship—illness, financial strain, grief, or adversity. But other times, it’s born from nothing more than the whisper of “what if?”

Just as the enemy tempted Eve with doubt, he seeks to stir our minds into uncertainty and anxiety, even when no storm looms on the horizon. Fear floods our hearts before we can even name its source.

In Keeper’s case, her nighttime fear seem to stem from one simple reality—she’s across the house from her masters. Her anxiety, at its core, is about proximity. She wants to know we were near.

And isn’t that our struggle too? When we can’t feel the nearness of our Savior, our hearts grow restless. To comfort her, I go to her room, kneel beside her, and whisper softly. I let her feel my touch as I stroke her head. Then, I leave one of my shirts on her bed. Dogs identify by scent more than sight, so that familiar aroma brings her peace. She curls against it, reassured that I am near, even when unseen.

That image mirrors the divine comfort we receive from Christ. After His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension, the disciples were stricken with grief and confusion. Their Teacher was no longer beside them. But God, in His infinite compassion, sent the Holy Spirit—the Comforter—to dwell within us. Through Him, we don’t just sense our Master’s presence; we are wrapped in it.

Just as Keeper snuggles against the shirt that carries my scent, we, too, can rest in the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit. When fear rises—whether from baseless anxiety or life’s fiercest trials—the Spirit whispers peace. His presence is the assurance that our Master is near.

So, hold fast to your faith. Wrap yourself in His presence. Feel His anointing touch. Breathe deeply the aroma of His assurance.

Fear will always demand a response. It will either send you running… or propel you into the waiting arms of Jesus.

Reflection Questions:

1.    What “what if” thoughts most often steal your peace?

2.    How can you remind yourself daily of the Spirit’s nearness?

3.    When anxiety strikes, what Scripture or prayer helps you refocus on God’s presence?

Prayer:Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of Your presence through the Holy Spirit. When fear creeps into my heart—whether grounded or groundless—remind me that You are near. Calm my anxious thoughts, soothe my trembling spirit, and wrap me in Your peace. May I find rest not in what I see, but in the assurance of who You are. Amen.