Sanctuary

Theology & Meaning

Lord Prepare Me to Be a Sanctuary — universally known simply as 'Sanctuary' — is a prayer for personal holiness drawn from the New Testament's declaration that the believer's body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. The song asks God to make the individual worshiper a holy, pure dwelling place for His presence. The theology holds together both the indicative (you are a temple) and the imperative (therefore pursue holiness) of 1 Corinthians 6.

Worship Leadership Tips

One of the most widely used preparation-for-worship songs in the Christian tradition — sung in Roman Catholic, Protestant, and charismatic contexts alike. Works as an opening prayer before corporate worship, before communion, or in any context of preparation and consecration. Its wide ecumenical use makes it unique.

Arrangement Tips

Simple, reverent, and unhurried. Piano or acoustic guitar is the natural accompaniment. The song does not benefit from complex production — its power is in its directness and its universality. Keep the dynamic range in the quieter register and allow the prayer to be genuine.

Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 6:19
• Psalm 46:4
• Exodus 25:8