“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.” – Psalms 9:9-10
The term “safe spaces” gets knocked about plenty in popular culture. Often, it’s used in connection with young adults allegedly seeking refuge from the responsibilities of maturity.
Yet, whether we realize it or not, we all occasionally need a safe space to unburden our souls … release pent-up stress and anxiety … and allow someone else to lift us up.
Problem is, very few busy people – especially organizational leaders – acknowledge this, as least publicly. Their default mode is to never reveal signs of mental or emotional duress.
Consequences ensue, as can be expected. The related “self- treatment” usually involves diving deeper into work, or more rounds of golf, or consuming alcohol or other substances. These serve only to bury deeper the internal suffering.
Only one authentic refuge exists: Laying our burdens at the foot of the cross.
Create a Place for Others
“Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.” – Psalms 16:1
Scripture assures us repeatedly that God is our stronghold in times of trouble. All the other avenues we seek for relief are just distractions. Keeping Christ at the center of our life ensures a thriving, high-quality existence.
Still, we are human. Finding validation and encouragement are basic needs. These lie within the safe space that every person craves (whether they admit it or not).
How do we create this reality, which differs from person to person? Try these action items:
• Teach in love: Without love, we have nothing. Love God and others ceaselessly. A world filled with hate and animosity can crush our hopes and potential. Don’t let it. Live out your love, and watch others open up with truth and authenticity.
• Share the Gospel in words and actions: “Preach the Gospel at all times and, when necessary, use words” is a quote attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. He’s right. The Bible, especially for the uninitiated, can be just words on a page. We embody the Gospel through service, forgiveness, and compassion. Don’t just memorize Scripture – live it in deeds and words.
• Admit you need Christ: Ego all too often blocks us necessarily diminishing ourselves, so that God can be exalted. We can’t earn salvation. Only Christ can grant it. Admit you need Him, and accept his redemption. In a world that can be dark, nasty, and foreboding, why wouldn’t you want Him on your side?
• Be trustworthy: People are turned off by those who gossip, answer before listening, or are quick to judge. Similarly, do you talk about yourself continuously, at the exclusion of taking interest in others? All create doubt about one’s trustworthiness. Avoiding these behaviors opens spaces where others can fill up spiritually.
God calls us to help others. This includes those who won’t readily seek help, or feel they have no place to turn. Every person is unique – with their own singular experiences, talents, and traumas. They all want validation and encouragement. We must adapt, and be open, to the distinct space that each requires.
God Will Keep Us Safe
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” – Ephesians 6:12
The dark forces of the spiritual world seek constantly to trip us up. If we’re preoccupied, we can’t bring others to God. Their roadblocks are constant and innovative.
All the more reason to turn to God with everything – no matter how small, or how much it hurts to describe or confess. Being transparent and vulnerable with Him spills over into other parts of our lives. Knowing God is with us makes life much more manageable, even during challenging times.
Of course, this describes finding your safe space, where you can be completely open and honest. No matter is too minor. Even if you feel like a nobody, to God you’ll always be a somebody.
Doesn’t this sound refreshing and uplifting? It is. Maybe you’ve found the space where you feel safe. If not, don’t stop trying to help others do so – maybe you’ll find it together. Once there, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
(If you’re ready to embrace Christ, He’s ready for you. Visit C-Suite for Christ to join in Christ-centered fellowship with other professionals. Join us as a member. Plant a chapter where you live. Consider becoming a corporate partner. Follow C-Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)
