In the midst of 2013, Melinda and I faced a significant setback in our ministry, a blow that seemed designed to silence us and render us irrelevant; to cancel us and our ministry. Reflecting on those challenging months, I realized the enemy's attempts to thwart us. During that turbulent summer, as I sought solace in worship, the need for a safe haven to heal our wounds became crystal clear. We longed for a sanctuary.
While lost in a musical reverie in my home studio, I stumbled upon a guitar riff that echoed the spirit of the movie "Oh, Brother, Where Art Thou" – a film that holds a special place in my heart for its family-friendly charm. We've watched it so many times with our children through the years that lines from the movie have become a part of our everyday conversations. "Do not seek the treasure," "I nicked the census man," "Now there's a good boy," along with favorites like "Mrs. Hogwallop up and R-U-N-N-O-F-T," and "We thought you was a toad," not forgetting my favorite, the classic, "That don’t make no sense!" These shared moments of laughter amidst life's challenges served as a sanctuary for my family.
As I reflected on the idea of God being my sanctuary in the midst of trials, and with the movie's inspiration lingering, a song began to take shape. It swiftly became a personal favorite, a heartfelt ode to my relationship with God. Keeping the production raw and simple, I envisioned people gathered on front porches, belting out this song...
The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
The righteous runs into it and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10 NASB
The name of the Lord truly serves as a sanctuary for my soul. When seeking peace, I find solace in Jehovah Shalom - the Lord is my Peace. In times of need, I turn to Jehovah Jireh - the Lord is my Provider. For guidance, I lean on Jehovah Rohi - the Lord is my Shepherd. Seeking healing, I trust in Jehovah Rapha - the Lord is my Healer. Longing for righteousness, I find refuge in Jehovah T’sidkenu - the Lord is my Righteousness. For holiness, I seek Jehovah M’Kaddesh - the Lord is my Holiness. When I simply need His presence, I rest in Jehovah Shammah - the Lord is Here. And for victory, I rely on Jehovah Nissi - the Lord is my Banner of Victory.
In life's various seasons, we all crave sanctuary for our souls. It's incredible how God reveals His nature through these names, offering us protection and peace in every circumstance. So, find your sanctuary in His presence as you journey ahead. He's always there, ready for us to call out to Him, to run to Him.
Dennis Jernigan
To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the song, “Sanctuary”, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/sanctuary-119914398
The photo is courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2013/10/23/12/29/church-199778_1280.jpg