Proverbs 12:10 

Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel.

Michael Dwayne Vick. Does that name ring a bell? Quarterback. Virginia Tech. Atlanta Falcons. Pro Bowl one season; jail cell the next. In April 2007, Vick was identified as the key figure of an extensive unlawful interstate dog fighting ring. Later that year, he was sentenced to twenty-three months in a federal prison.

In our culture, the mistreatment of animals is a character issue. In the Old Testament, it was that and more. Today’s animal mentioned in our passage was not a pet but a work animal—an ox or donkey. In the agrarian culture, a person’s animal was essential in plowing the fields, harvesting the crops, and treading out the grain. The animal was to be properly treated and cared for. It was a matter of integrity.

Caring for animals is a great way to teach your children how to care for others. As they care for their pets, teach them how that same care should be given to those less fortunate than we are, those who need us to provide for them. Use this practical life skill to drive home a deep spiritual lesson. 

Father, teach us that integrity is to be applied in every area of our lives. Teach us that the failure to do so is not integrity at all.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen.