Our dog, Riley, has always been a couch dog.

For our entire marriage, none of our dogs were allowed on the furniture. They were all big dogs, ranging from Doberman and Boxer, to Labrador and Golden Retrievers, and all well-trained on the niceties of living in a human home. But then we got Riley. Riley is a miniature Dachshund. Because of his tiny stature, everyone found his ability to jump on the sofa adorable, so we never stopped him. He has been the king of it ever since.

Even as I type, he is here on the sofa, on his usual perch: The top of the back cushion. He’s always gone straight for the highest point, presumably to gain the broadest view. It’s right on the edge, though, and I’ve always considered it a bit of a risk. I mean, he could fall straight off the back, and that’s a long way down for an unsuspecting long-bodied fellow who is not, in the least, built with the stealthy landing abilities of his feline counterparts.

Of course, it’s no surprise that I find it risky. I tend to find most things risky, being the middle-of-the-road-lovin’ gal that I am. You won’t find me playing on the other side of the fence, or coloring outside the lines, or pushing any envelopes; no sir. I’ll be the one sitting firmly on the seat cushion of any sofas you pass, with my feet planted firmly on the ground.

Sounds sensible, doesn’t it? For the most part, it is. It’s a fine way to live life, but predictable…safe. There’s a big part of me that loves it that way, too. But, we’re not always called to be seat-cushion sitters. Sometimes we’re beckoned by a big God to come right to edge of our own abilities and our own fears, and live right there, perched high on the other side of our comfort. Sometimes it’s hard to say yes, and climb up there, grabbing His outstretched hand. But when we do…

Ohhh…when we do…

We gain a different vantage point through His eyes.

We start to grasp the difference between average and abundant.

We understand the excitement of living outside ourselves and inside His strength.

I can feel Riley readjusting himself behind me, right on the edge, yet leaning into my robe. Maybe that really is the best way to live life all the time.

Right on the edge, where He’s calling us.

Leaning into His robe.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart;do not depend on your own understanding.Seek his will in all you do,and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

“And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.” Romans 8:30 NLT

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 ESV

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT