The Anchor for Our Souls

Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.

Hebrews 6:18-19 NLT

When we’re in difficult times, and if we’re fortunate enough to have caring friends or family, they may offer encouraging words such as “I’ll be hoping for the best.” And it’s somewhat comforting to know that you have someone in your corner.

But hope is not a verb. It’s not something we or anyone else can do for us. We can only find true and everlasting hope in the Lord.

We find hope in God’s presence. When life feels out of control, turn to Him in prayer. “He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken. My victory and honor come from God alone (Psalm 62:6–7 NLT).”

We find hope in God’s promise—His living Word. “My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word (Psalm 119:81 ESV).”

We find hope in God’s process, which almost certainly does not reflect our understanding. But even in our pain, God is at work sewing things together for good. This process may not translate to our immediate comfort, but it is meant to conform us to be more like Christ (Romans 8:28). God uses our struggles to produce endurance, which builds character, and character produces hope (Romans 5:3–5).

We find hope in God’s purpose for our lives. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope’ (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT).”

And finally, we find hope in the promise of things to come. In John 14:1–2, Christ says, “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?”

Hope is not something we do; it’s something we possess. And it’s given to us by God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit. Hope is the anchor for our soul and without it, we would be lost.

Are you hopeful? If not, are there areas of your life that you’re not fully trusting the Lord? 

Today’s author: Mark Henderson—Founder of The Inspired Legacy

Mark is a creative professional with more than 20 years of experience in the fields of web design and advertising. He also serves as the chief content officer at The Inspired Legacy, an online ministry dedicated to shining a light on God’s gift of parenthood. The organization aims to inspire and equip fathers to boldly lead their families, love their kids unconditionally, and leave a legacy of grown children that carry on these same traditions. Mark resides in Sioux Falls, South Dakota with his wife, Kimberly. Together, they have three children, two girls, and one boy.