Will Your Anchor Hold?

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
will your anchor drift, or firm remain?

I’ve known this old hymn all my life, loving its imagery and old fashioned language. In recent years, living in a seaside town, and attending a church where it’s special to the Boys Brigade, it has taken on new meaning.

Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear,
when the breakers roar and the reef is near?
While the surges rave, and the wild winds blow,
shall the angry waves then your bark o’erflow?

Written by Priscilla Owens, an American nineteenth century Methodist youth worker, the picture of a boat in a storm, wind and waves, potential shipwreck, forces outside human control, still resonates today.

Life’s storms, coming through ill health, family break up, bereavement, addictions… bring fear, hopelessness and despair. Although we long for peace and calm we need an anchor for security and stability in the middle of the storm.

Will your anchor hold in the floods of death,
when the waters cold chill your latest breath?
On the rising tide you can never fail,
while your anchor holds within the veil.

Musing on 2Timothy 1… Timothy had four anchors that kept him steady in storms:

• Family(5): He owed much to his mother, Eunice, and his grandmother, Lois
• Friends(3-4): Although he had many friends, Paul was his particular mentor and close friend
• Focus(6-7): Developing his gifts and talents, with power, love and self-discipline, his life had purpose and direction.
• Faith(10-12): He was convinced of his beliefs and had confidence in the personal God he had committed his life to.

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!