“It isn’t necessary that we stay in church in order to remain in God’s presence,” wrote Brother Lawrence. “We can make our hearts personal chapels where we can enter anytime to talk to God privately” [1].
Isn’t that a glorious realization?
After all, “God could have . . . made his sanctuary in the farthest galaxies, in the majestic mountains, in the deep oceans, or in the vast Grand Canyon. But he chose to live in you and me” [2].
Being a visual learner causes me to wonder, What might an imaginary, personal chapel look like?
I see intricately-carved marble bathed in golden light, stained glass windows creating rainbows on the walls, and a soaring ceiling that fosters awe and wonder.
I also see a long, winding staircase within the castle of my heart. It leads upward to this turret-chapel, far away from the concerns and distractions of the day.
Along that staircase, images line the walls—reminders of God’s attentive care through the years. By the time I reach the chapel-door, my spirit is filled with gratitude and praise.
But the door is closed.
And the only action that will open it is repentance.
Sin is no small matter; it is cosmic treason—it is overthrowing the rule of the One to whom I owe everything [3].
But what do I say? King David’s prayer of repentance (Psalm 51) gives me words:
Lord God, I feel dirty with self-centeredness and pride as I approach your presence. I ask you to wash me, cleanse me, and purge me. Blot out my iniquities, I pray.
I praise you for your mercy and steadfast love that prompt you to abound with forgiveness. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen.” [4].
And the door swings open.
There my Heavenly Father sits in an ornate chair, befitting the Almighty King. He beckons me to join him and perch on his footstool [5].
“I’m so glad you’ve come . Just sit and rest awhile. Allow my calming presence to envelop you.” And his arm gently rests on my shoulders.
“Now, what brings you here today?” he asks, while leaning back comfortably in his chair.
“Feelings of frustration,” I blurt. “Circumstances are not unfolding as I expected.”
“I know Child. Remember, I am over all and through all and in all [6]—even in these circumstances. Refresh your spirit with such affirmations of trust as:
“I also feel overwhelmed, Lord. The to-do list is long and time is short.” I turn my body to face him more squarely. “Please help me prioritize and use my time wisely.”
“Of course!” he responds, with a pat on my back. “When you need wisdom, just ask. I am always ready to oblige” [7].
“Thank you, Father, for your reassurance to see me through [8]!
“And then, one more thing. I ask that you help me honor you in the tasks and encounters of this day.”
He smiles. “Now that is the kind of prayer I love to answer. Never forget that I am always with you; I am your reliable and perfect helper” [9].
I bask in his presence as God provides encouragement from his Word. The golden light that emanates from his presence, permeates my being [10].
I receive the inflowing of the Holy Spirit; he strengthens my will, thinking, and perceptions [11]. He grants me shalom—wholeness, contentment, and peace.
Now I’m ready to face the day, but very glad that anytime I can swoop up that staircase to my personal chapel and be ministered to by the Lord himself.
Praise God for his open invitation to come and his gracious benefits when we do!
[1] The Practice of the Presence of God, “Fourth Letter,” edited by Whitaker House, 1982.
[2] Beth Moore, A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place, 215.
[3] Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus, 108.
[4] Based on Psalm 51:1-3, 7, 9-10, and a devotional by Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 144.
[5] Psalm 99:5
[6] Ephesians 4:6
[7] Based on James 1:5 NLT
[8] Proverbs 3:5-6
[9] Psalm 118:7a
[10] 2 Corinthians 4:6
[11] Based on The Spiritual Life by Andrew Murray, Whitaker House, 1996, pp. 148, 155.
Image credits: http://www.picryl.com; http://www.flickr.com (Chris Smith); http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com.
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From the Inside Out 