“It’s streams delight the city of God, The holy dwelling places of the Most High. God is with her; she will not be toppled. God will help her when the morning dawns, Nations rage, kingdoms topple; The earth melts when he lifts his voice. The Lord of Armies is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah.” – Psalm 46:4-7
Devotional
The last couple of weeks have been trying, difficult in the sense that it feels like our lives are being turned upside down. Everything has come to a halt and most people are dealing with an enormous amount of fear and doubt. Fear of an unknown outcome and doubt that there is anyone left to save us. “Fear is defined as one feeling anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety and well-being of someone. As well as “one avoiding or putting off doing something because one is afraid.” This dreadful idea of not knowing when things will turn gives us the chance to turn to the only One who does.
As we face this time at home we can spend time with God, the only One who can give us clarity. In my time allowing God to pour into me, to fill in the empty places that were open to fear, anxiety, stress and doubt; God reminded me that He is the One that saves. So, I guess my question is what are you choosing to believe? What are the empty spaces in your heart that you’re allowing fear to take over? The Psalmist reminds us that God is our refuge. His dwelling place is a safe place even when the world topples and everyone around you is in an uproar. “Now without faith it is impossible to please God. We must believe that God is real and rewards those who seek him diligently.” (Hebrews 11:6) Placing your hopes and trust in anything other than God would be foolish. Yes, we are all aware of what the world sees, but as followers of Christ Jesus; we know that God is Good on His promises and His love never fails. He isn’t moved by perfection or how you’re doing it. We just bring praise for what He will do next, He’s already brought freedom, paid our debt and brought a miracle. He is our solid hope.
Contributed by – Shani Ford In the midst of my pain I found a God who fiercely sought after me. In 2017 I was in a broken place lost, living without purpose, and wanting to be found. Through the love of God I was able to find a peace that would change a rebel into a righteous women. I am from California, but currently living in Chicago, Illinois. Now walking a path to help change people perspectives on what it means to walk in God’s grace. I believe since I was able to find happiness, and true joy that everyone I encounter should and can find it too. Through The Sanctuary I have been able to grow in my walk while pursing the life that God has called me to.
Contributed by – Shani Ford