You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. (Psalm 32:7 NIV)
At the start of the year, my life was in shambles. Our bank account was almost empty, and health troubles were looming. And now, fear had found a comfortable resting place in my daily meditations. How could I be thankful?
Sanctuary. - I heard the word in my mind as clearly as if someone had spoken it directly to me. I needed sanctuary. In the olden days, sanctuary referred to a person’s right to protection within the walls of a consecrated church. As long as the person seeking shelter stayed within the confines of the church, their right to sanctuary was usually respected.
How did that apply to me, though? I too was on the run. My fears were as real as the pursuers of a miscreant in medieval times. Trying to hide from them was impossible. But there is a sanctuary. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)
Safe! - What a wonderful word. In the strong tower of Jesus, I can find rest and strength. It’s where I can discuss everything with the Savior and He will show me how to deal with each problem and fear. What about all my troubles? Aren’t they still there? After time in the sanctuary, their sting is gone. There’s nothing that Jesus and I together cannot handle. And the best part is, I can run back to the sanctuary as often as necessary. [1]
Safe in the arms of Jesus,
Safe on His gentle breast,
There by His love o’ershaded,
Sweetly my soul shall rest. - Fanny Crosby, 1868
[1] Activated Sanctuary
