Finding Safety in God's Garden:Your Journey Begins

Hi friend, I'm Jennifer Mehling, and I'm so glad you're here in this sacred garden space. Over the past few years, Jesus has taken me on an incredible healing journey, transforming my mind and heart in ways I never thought possible. While my full story (coming in my book "Blooming in the Shadows: From Grief to Grace" in January 2025) is still unfolding, I want to share with you one of the most precious gifts He's given me: finding safety in His garden.

You see, our Father is the ultimate Master Gardener, and Jesus tends to our hearts with such gentle care. Just as He cultivates every flower and nurtures each seed with perfect wisdom and timing, He knows exactly what our souls need to bloom. In His garden, every broken place can become fertile soil for new growth, and every wound can transform into a wellspring of His grace.

Today, let's take our first gentle step together as we explore what it means to feel truly safe with our Father. Whether you're carrying heavy burdens or simply seeking deeper peace, there's room for you here. No perfect flowers required - just bring your authentic self and let's grow together.

What Does Spiritual Safety Feel Like?

God's Garden vs. World's Chaos
In our world of constant notifications, deadlines, and demands, peace can feel impossible to find. But God's garden offers something different. Think of stepping from a busy street into a walled garden - the noise fades, your shoulders relax, you can finally breathe. This is what God's presence offers our spirits. While the world speaks pressure and performance, His garden whispers rest and renewal.

Biblical Examples of Safe Spaces
Scripture is filled with beautiful examples of God creating safe spaces for His beloved:
• David found refuge in God's secret place (Psalm 91:1-2)
• Elijah heard God's gentle whisper in a cave (1 Kings 19:11-13)
• Mary sat safely at Jesus's feet (Luke 10:38-42)
• Jesus Himself retreated to garden spaces to pray (Matthew 26:36)

Your Personal Garden with Jesus
Just as each earthly garden is unique, your safe space with Jesus will be personally designed for you. Maybe it's a sunny meadow where you can dance freely, or a quiet forest where you can finally cry, or a seaside garden where you can have honest conversations with your Father.

Finding Your Sacred Space

Simple Visualization Exercise
Close your eyes and imagine Jesus extending His hand to you. Where does He lead you? Notice the details:
• What do you see around you?
• What peaceful sounds do you hear?
• Can you feel the gentle breeze or warm sun?
• What fragrances fill this space?

Scripture Meditation Moment
"The Lord is my shepherd... He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul." (Psalm 23:1-3)
Pause here. Let these words paint a picture in your heart.

Prayer Connection Points
• "Father, show me what safety feels like with You"
• "Jesus, help me recognize Your peaceful presence"
• "Holy Spirit, guide me to my rest in You"

Your First Garden Step (Art Exercise)

Materials Needed:
• Paper (any size, but larger gives more freedom)
• Coloring tools (crayons, markers, pencils - whatever you have)
• Optional: magazines for collage, glue stick
• A quiet moment (even 10 minutes will work)

Drawing Prompt: "Your Safe Place with Jesus"
As you begin, remember - this isn't about creating a masterpiece. This is about expressing your heart's vision of safety with Jesus. Maybe you'll draw:
• A garden path leading to a quiet bench
• A meadow filled with wildflowers
• A secret garden with a gate only you and Jesus know
• Simply colors that represent peace to you

No Artistic Skill Required
Let go of any pressure to "get it right." Your heart's expression is perfect exactly as it is. This is between you and Jesus - no one else needs to understand or approve of your creation.

Journal Prompt for Reflection:
"Dear Jesus, when I picture being completely safe with You, I see..."
(Write freely for 5-10 minutes, letting your heart speak)

Preview of Next Week:
Next time, we'll explore how to recognize God's voice in our garden spaces, distinguishing His gentle truth from the world's noise.

Invitation to Share:
If you feel comfortable, I'd love to hear about your safe garden space in the comments below. What did Jesus show you? Remember, this is a grace-filled community - your vulnerability is welcome here.

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With garden grace,
Jennifer