I have a very special place to tell you about. It's a sacred space that was shown to me in a vision as I was spending time with the Lord. In the weeks following the encounter, I've sought God about its meaning, and he's been faithful to reveal it. I'd love to share it with you, so that you too can purpose to go to this place and find rest. I want to point out the posture that we take there, so that any time you need refreshing you'll know how to find it.
The vision is an illustration for our better understanding. In addition to reading Scripture, forming prayers, and fighting battles, there's a place prepared for us to simply meet with the King and spend time with him. It represents setting aside our work to lean in close and rest as we listen to the Lord. In this posture, we'll discover so many beautiful and powerful things. Come in, and read about this room. Then go, and find the One anticipating your arrival.
The Vision
As the vision began, I was walking towards a particular building, with purpose in my step. It was familiar, and I knew I was supposed to be there. As I reached the front doors and walked inside, it wasn't what I was expecting. Instead of a restaurant or business, it was a fairly empty space. There was a small desk for checking in, which made me presume that I'd be meeting with a counselor. Beside a large picture window in the front corner, I saw a comfortable setting that was perfectly suited for the two of us to spend time together. There was a comfy sofa and I was intrigued to see my picture hanging above. This space had been purposed just for me. My curiosity arose as I walked over and sat down. Yet, it was hopeful anticipation that prevailed as I looked forward to seeing the One who was to join me. As I settled in to wait, rest descended in the quiet of the room.
A Prepared Place
The sun was shining golden through the window, and the trees outside were giving shade. There must have been an opening somewhere, because even inside I sensed a breeze blowing. It was like an easy summer afternoon, the kind from childhood that stretched long. As I closed my eyes and leaned back, Jesus was suddenly there and I was leaning onto his chest. Honesty was in the atmosphere, so I let myself be true and allowed the weight of my heaviness to be felt. His strength reassured that he could bear it. This time of sharing the burden of life spread out slow, like a shadow inching across the floor. Instead of becoming burdened by the heavy things, though, he was happy, even joyful. His arms bore my needs and miraculously transformed them weightless. He whispered to my soul without speaking and the built-up worries dissipated as I opened my hands and allowed them to leave.
This appointment, this set-apart place, this position, along with my yielding, activated his protection and safety. With all the world going on outside that window, worry couldn't touch me because I was on the most strong and capable chest. Nothing waiting on me could pull me down because the work was still being accomplished by the Lord, as I leaned back and trusted in him. So everything was at ease, because this particular time had been set apart just for us. This time was for rest, trust, and deep friendship.
In this effortless space where time knew no end, Jesus was smiling over me, beside me, behind me, before me, all around me. His joy completely filled the room. And somehow I just knew that the time that we were sharing was valuable to the Lord, as it was to me. The exchange delighted him. It purified, steadied, and equipped me.
No one can tell me now that he is not my strong Defender, my wise Counselor, my closest Friend. And as I walked through the doors, back out into the waiting world, the sun felt warm and the breeze blew fresh as I looked back and caught his eye. I am his girl, his beloved one. And I'm taking all that he's given wherever I go.
A Place for You
Is the vision of this room awakening a desire in you to spend time with the Lord in such a way? Perhaps life feels too heavy and you need help with your burdens. His strength is available to lighten your load and hope is here to help you release the worries that you need to let go.
There's a seat with your picture hanging above; it's been specially purposed, just for you. You don't have to do anything before you enter in. Just be honest with your need and know that you're loved.
Taking it Into the World
To trust the Lord and to take his peace into this unpredictable world, we'll need to withdraw to rest, to enjoy, and to be strengthened by his Presence. Refreshed and refilled, when we step through the door and head back into the world, we'll better know the One who gives his peace. We'll trust him more and work from this place of rest. We'll know victory before the end, as we continue to battle darkness from this place of rest. All that we do will be affected by our rest and all victory originates in this place where we lean in to hear the heartbeat of our King. He is ready and waiting to give us all that we need for the adventure of living.
Lean In
When you're ready, find a quiet spot to sit down and meditate on Psalm 46. Then take some time to just lean back on the Lord. Lean onto the One who is strength, so you can overcome the challenges of the world. Lean into his chest and and hear his heartbeat. Listen for what he's saying. Feel his peace. Receive his rest.
Psalm 46 (New Living Translation)
"God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day God will protect it.
The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God's voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven's Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
Come, see the glorious works of the Lord; See how he brings destruction upon the world. He causes war to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
'Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.'
The Lord of Heaven's Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress."
Prayer Response:
Father,
thank you for inviting me to come in close to you. Thank you for the special place prepared just for you and me. I love how you want to spend time with me.
You are my safety and my shield and I reside in your strong hand. Thank you. I trust in you.
Help me to listen and hear what you have to say during these trying times. Help me to hold fast to your Word and resist fear. Help me remember how good you are and how strong and capable you are. I have access to you any time; thank you!
I love spending time resting in your Presence and knowing your strength.
Thank you for loving me.
I love you too.
Comentarios