The Secret: How Do You See Love?Sample

Just like Jerusalem

Written By: Pastor Dan Hickling

“God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.”—Psalm 46:5 (NKJV)

Let’s cut straight to the chase . . . How do you know if someone is the right person for you? How do you know if they’re even qualified to be “the one”? The Scripture above puts us on the right path.

In context, Psalm 46:5 is describing the city of Jerusalem and its unique place in God’s plans. Some have even suggested that this Psalm is actually giving us a glimpse into the future when the Lord establishes His Kingdom here on earth. In that day, the city of Jerusalem will serve as the place where He will set up His throne, and a life-giving river will literally flow from a restored temple (Ezekiel 40-48).

Whether this passage is pointing to the Jerusalem of the past, present, or future, it’s clear what makes this city singular and special—God is in the midst of it. Of course, we know that God is really everywhere by virtue of the fact that He is omnipresent. However, this is different, because over and over God tells us there’s a special connection between Him and this place.

And because of this, it will not be moved. Shaken, yes, but not utterly moved out of place. It will stand the test of time and in the end it will be the last city standing because God will be her help.

But what does this have to do with choosing a mate? Keep in mind that during these New Testament times, the dwelling place of God is now within the Christian (1 Corinthians 3:16). God desires to be in the midst of us through the power and presence of His Spirit. He wants His Spirit to be at the very center of our lives, so that He is the hub from which all of our words, actions, and even thoughts emanate.

That’s the standard we need to have when it comes to a potential mate; someone whose life looks like Jerusalem, whose life is “centered” on the Holy Spirit of God within them. Because a life like that won’t be moved, just like Jerusalem. 

DIG: How does Psalm 46:5 point us to the qualities we should seek in a mate?

DISCOVER: What are your standards and do they match with God’s?

DISPLAY: How can you become more “centered” on the Holy Spirit?