Tiny Habits® From Trauma to FaithExemplo

Sacred Spaces

“And if I’m on my way to get your room ready, I’ll come back and get you so you can live where I live.” – Jesus (John 14:3, MSG)

Did you ever spend time in a treehouse you built in the backyard or the woods? Or a fortress in the living room made of sheets, couch cushions, and pillows? Or maybe a big cardboard box overflowing with limitless possibilities? Or a closed wardrobe that led straight through to other realms?

When we were children, these were sacred spaces designed with determination, joy, and an otherworldly awareness of our right to have a special place all on our own. Armed with a flashlight to defeat all darkness, we were safe from monsters and mayhem—even if only for a little while.

The human need for a dedicated safe space is something that you never outgrow. This is because places of refuge are essential. A sacred space is a physical location to store comforting reminders that help your mind and heart be still long enough to consider and even embrace the idea that—at least for a moment—you’re safe, and there truly is goodness in the world.

As someone who’s experienced more than a fair share of monstrous childhood moments, I know that violations of the fundamental human right to safety can have painful and negative effects that ripple across the decades. These effects often hinder our best efforts to move forward in recovery.

Such personal violations teach you during your formative years that perhaps your wants, needs, and boundaries don’t matter. As a child, it seems logical to decide that if those entrusted with your care during a time when you need it the most chose not to care for you, then maybe your needs are insignificant in the grand plan for humanity. Maybe you aren’t worthy of love?

Believing these lies can quickly become a habit that’s very difficult to unravel. Difficult, yes—but not impossible. As Jesus says, “Everything is possible for one who believes” (Mark 9:23, NIV). By His Spirit, you can rise above the temptation to believe that there’s no place for you after what you’ve been through.

You’re stronger than any abuse, and you’re still here for a reason: to experience, share, and enjoy God’s unfailing love. God is your refuge today and always. He made a place for you that day on the cross. When you choose to believe and rest in Him, you’re safe—right now and forever.

TinyHabit®: Sacred Spaces for Sacred Moments

Find a corner in your bedroom. Maybe buy a pop-up tent. Hang a curtain or position a Japanese screen. Designate a bench in the backyard or under a certain tree at your favorite park. Find your sacred space: a place to meet with God and remember that you were made to shine and that you always have a place to belong—in the presence of your Maker, who loves you with an everlasting love.

Creating good TinyHabits® is as easy as A-B-C!

Anchor Moment: After I enter my sacred space . . .

Tiny Behavior: I will take three slow, calming breaths.

Tiny Celebration: Then I will smile and say out loud, “Thank You, God!”

Well done beginning the process of finding your sacred space. Let’s keep moving forward together!