Safe But Not Sound

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].” 2 Timothy 1:7 AMP

“The steamship whose machinery is broken may be brought into port and made fast to the dock. She is safe, but not sound. Repairs may last a long time. Christ designed to make us both safe and sound. Justification gives the first – safety; sanctification gives us the second – soundness.” Agatha Christie

As a child, I felt safe and sound in my little bed at night. I’d hear a little bit of the television while yawning into blessed sleep. Some of us had colorful monsters under the bed or ghostly shadows that spooked our imaginations. But with a safe and loving home, the creatures fade into nothingness. I had no idea what sound meant in the familiar quote. I sure do now!

Sound of mind means life-long work, life-long repair and life-long support. The death of a loved one, divorce, health crisis, war or threats of war, and financial ruin robs us of safety and a sound mind. Safety seems to be at an all-time low, but because of what Jesus did we are safe and sound. We can navigate the storms and chaos because of what He did for us and His abundant promises.

Are we saved to get to Heaven or learning to have Heaven within? Everyone has a story. Everyone. Healing comes when we share with others we trust. Sometimes it comes from blogging with like-minded souls. We know with “blessed assurance” we will be in Heaven but the Father wants more for us: Heaven within. It’s so attractive we may win others to Christ because of it. The saying, “People won’t remember what you said, what you did, but how you made them feel.” That’s Heaven within. Soundness.

Musings

It’s been said, “In youth, you learn. In age, you understand.” I’m old enough to know this is true. Learning is so painful and having an understanding person in life is medicine for the soul. The Hymn, In the Garden, reminds us He walks with me and He talks with me. We have his power to become safe and sound and words may have nothing to do with it—presence, prayer, Heaven within.

Prayer

Dear Father,

You are our security, safety and harbor. Your Son came to save us but also to transform us into soundness. You give us love, power, sound judgment and self-discipline. Help us carry a little Heaven with us today with thanks.

Amen.