I think animals are some of God’s greatest gifts to us. What better way to show us how much He loves us than through the unconditional, devoted love of cute and furry four-leggers sacked out at the feet of our beds, or on our faces.

The Lord uses animals to bless us in so many ways. Some are raised to nourish us—humanely, I might add, as the Lord expects us to take proper care of animals (given to us for our consumption) while they are alive. Some become members of our families, and we love them as such. Others remain wild and free for us to admire in various ways, whether it’s a pair of birds chirping in the backyard, prideful lions on safari, or dolphins playing chase alongside a boat.

Undoubtedly, animals are here to bring more joy and love to our lives. But they’re also here to teach us and protect us. God uses them in all sorts of neat and creative ways in order to help us. How has he used one in your life?

I have a strong affinity for animals and have had several special encounters, so I’ll share a few. First is my sweet Shih-Poo, Peter, who has been with me for over ten years. God brought him to me right before I underwent one of the hardest years of my life (I’ll never forget 2012). My physical and mental health were hit harder than ever and I experienced suicidal feelings several times that year. When my husband went to work, Peter laid with me on the couch and made sure I moved once in a while to take him on potty breaks. Before I even realized my true worth in Christ, and that my life belonged to Him (and therefore wasn’t mine to take), it was Peter that kept me going on those rough days when I was alone and googling “ways to commit suicide and not screw it up.” I feel like I owe this dog so much, for he has given me so much. As an emotional support and pet-facilitated therapy animal, Peter inspires me to write children’s stories, fundraise for animal charities, and volunteer in the community.

Then there’s Star, a gorgeous snow white horse who resides on an equine therapy ranch. I sought out equine therapy after the disastrous year of 2012. Wasn’t exactly sure what I was looking for, but God led me to pasture. Long story short, after several months, Star helped me overcome deep-seated fears of pregnancy (and all the changes that go with it, like weight gain) and motherhood. A few years later, I packed on sixty pounds without a care in the world, had a wonderful pregnancy, gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, lost the weight, and learned what a true blessing it is to be a mother.

And finally, Henry. Henry is a magnificent hawk that started appearing at meaningful times after my dad died. I was heartbroken and desperately searching for “signs” from my dad right after he passed, but they never came. Once I stopped looking, Henry started appearing on occasion when I would reflect on memories of my dad. Just the other day, he flew overhead and squawked at me, as if to say hello, while I was sitting on a park bench near my house, missing my dad.

Perhaps the greatest way, at least for me, that the Lord uses animals to bless us is through healing. One animal helps me heal from sickness. One helped me overcome fears and major life obstacles. One helps me manage grief after the loss of a loved one. I could go on and on about how these beautiful creatures bless our lives. They are that heavenly. But make no mistake, they are nothing without our Father in Heaven who sends them to us on His behalf.

“Thank you, God, for the Gift of Animals.”