I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:16–17 (NLT)
My favorite place to be is home. In fact, if you could see me right now you’d know why I love it so much. I’m in my flannel pajamas, wearing no makeup, and I’m sitting in front of a rock fireplace in a leather recliner with my laptop. A fire crackles. Hot coffee steams beside me in my favorite mug. A fat Boston terrier snores by my feet. Sunshine spills through the window, enveloping me in natural light, and if I look outside I see woods and the Arkansas River. It’s a sanctuary for a hermit like me.
What does it mean for Jesus to make His home in our hearts? I hope it means He is comfortable there, happy. It’s not a place He’s passing through, but His permanent residence. He takes care of it. It’s a place He invests in, constantly making improvements. He decorates with all of His favorite things—beauty, joy, peace.
We have good conversations here; we know one another intimately; we share everything. What a lovely idea to imagine that wherever we go, we take Him with us in our hearts. He is there to stay, steady and secure, no matter what. We are never alone. I know that when I selected the place to build my house it was very special. I chose it because of the location, the view—it was where I wanted to be.
If you are a Christian, never doubt that Jesus lives in your heart. You are very special to Him. He chose you; your heart is where He wants to be. It is His sanctuary.
Faith Step: Meditate on the phrase “Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him.” Write down what you think that means. How might this perspective change the way you go about your day?
