Sanctuary

What comes to mind when you hear the word "sanctuary"? What compels you to seek sanctuary? For me, it means finding a quiet place. A place I can feel most like myself. A place I feel closest to God and can feel safe and secure. Sometimes it is difficult for me to hear God's voice. I "tune him out", kind of like when you're in the middle of something and your son or daughter (maybe even your spouse) wants some of your time. Life can tend to pull me in different directions. I get sucked in and try swimming it alone. Sometimes I have sought sanctuary in the wrong ways (materialism, work, hobbies, etc). I'm sure you can relate. These things in and of themselves are not wrong but when they consume us or when we put them before God it can lead us down the wrong path.




I've seen (many times after the fact) how God has used situations in my life, whatever the struggle or challenge, to help me see that I need Him. He continues to work on me being patient, trusting Him and being humble. When I finally come to Him, it is only then I have felt safety and comfort.


Psalm 27:5-8 says:
He will conceal me there when troubles come; He will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock. Then I will hold my head high above my enemies who surround me. At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the Lord with music.


Hear me as I pray, O Lord, Be merciful and answer me! My heart has heard you say "Come and talk with me." And my heart responds, "Lord, I am coming".




No matter why you seek sanctuary, God has given you that desire. He wants you to seek sanctuary with Him, so much so that He is always there to meet you. Coming into God's sanctuary means meeting Him, talking with Him and allowing Him to pour out His love for you.




Discussion Questions: I would love to hear your thoughts...


1. Does my heart hear God asking me to talk with Him? How am I responding?
2. How has God been leading me to enter His sanctuary?