Our Anchor
Hello Bride of Christ,
I am not much of a shopper, but one thing I did learn young was to judge a mall by its anchor stores. The quality of the anchor stores would give me insight to the quality of goods being sold and the type of experience I would have as a shopper. If I was on a hunt for a bargain, I would not go to malls which anchored themselves with Macy’s and Nieman Marcus, high-end retail stores. Since I am not a sailor that is about as much experience I have with anchors, but like anchors of a boat, which hold a boat in place to meet the sailors needs, these stores kept the mall in place to meet the shoppers needs. This concept of being “anchored”, settled, and unmoving in our faith can be found all throughout scripture, such as in the book of Hebrews.
“We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain” Hebrews 6:19
The writer of Hebrews uses the analogy of an anchor, which during this time was either a large stone or a mass of steel to hold a boat in place, to depict the grounding of our spiritual walks. The writer reminds the reader of the promise God made with Abraham “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.”(Hebrews 6:14) God alone makes this promise to Abraham. Although two parties (Abraham and God) were present for the promise declaration, only God Himself committed to seeing it fulfilled and making it happen. So how did Abraham respond?
Abraham waited patiently.
The writer notes in the following verse “And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise.” (Hebrews 6:15) Abraham did not strive for this promise of being multiplied and blessed. He waited. Just like a ship anchored on a seashore or a shopper looking for a deal. He anchored his soul. Abraham waited.
The writer encourages us that we too “have this sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain.” (Hebrews 6:19) This anchor is sure, meaning reliable. This anchor is steadfast, meaning firm and unwavering. This anchor unlike the stores in a mall or a physical anchor of a ship is internal and enters the inner place. Resulting in your soul, your heart ship, to stay put and wait. What is this anchor? Better yet, who is this anchor?
Bride of Christ, the writer tells us it is none other than our unchanging, forerunner, High Priest, Jesus Christ Himself. What or who is your heart tethered to? Are you trusting God for His promises? Do you find yourself waiting like Abraham? God has sealed you with the gift of the Holy Spirit of promised, who is the guarantee of our inheritance. (Ephesians 1:13-14) Let us have one heart cry as the Psalmist “I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I hope.” (Psalm 130:5) Choose today to anchor your soul in Jesus the author and perfecter of your faith. (Hebrews12:2)
