Will your anchor hold in the storm of life?
Shining gates of pearl our harbor bright.
We shall anchor fast to the heavenly shore,
With the storms all past forevermore.
We have an anchor that keeps the soul,
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll.
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love.
“Will Your Anchor Hold?”
Priscilla J. Owens, 1882.
As Adventists, we have sung the above song many times, but how many of us have really considered the meaning of the words? Where are we anchored and to what should our anchor be fastened?
The world is fast becoming a very scary place. On the one hand, praise God, for we have the second coming of Christ looming on the near horizon, closer than it has ever been. And on the other, as this event draws nearer and nearer, the sustaining hand of God is being withdrawn more and more and Satan is all too willing to step in and fill the void. Evil multiplies and it seems daily, even hourly, we read or hear of some terrible occurrence. We see the increase in alcoholism, drug addiction, suicide, murder, theft, abuse of every kind, abortion, child trafficking, blame and accusations, perversion, adultery, anger, violence, cruelty and hatred.
We read in Evangelism, 362, “The fallacies of Satan are now being multiplied, and those who swerve from the path of truth will lose their bearings. Having nothing to which to anchor, they will drift from one delusion to another, blown about by the winds of strange doctrines.”
As we evaluate our own lives, the things we read, watch, listen to, wear, pursue, what we say, how we use our means, how we spend our time – in prayer, in study – are we able to clearly see where we are anchored? Is it on this earth or in heaven?
“Many know so little about their Bibles that they are unsettled in the faith. They remove the old landmarks, and fallacies and winds of doctrine blow them hither and thither. … and [they] divorce themselves from God, while still claiming to be His children.” The Review and Herald, December 29, 1896.
Continuing in Evangelism 362, Mrs. White says, “I entreat everyone to be clear and firm regarding the certain truths that we have heard and received and advocated. The statements of God’s word are plain. Plant your feet firmly on the platform of eternal truth. Reject every phase of error, even though it be covered with a semblance of reality.” [Emphasis supplied.]
Lord, help us to be solidly anchored in Your word, fastened to the Rock which cannot move and grounded firm and deep in Your love. May we be fully clothed in the whole armor of God, ready with an “It is written,” when confronted by the devil or those who serve him. Make us strong to turn from this world and to look to You, seeking only to do Your will. Keep us faithful until You come, is our prayer today and every day.