December 4
The Anchor
of Hope
Hebrews 6:19-20
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.
Daily Steps
Having learned that hope is the ultimate result of endurance (Day 338), the new believer must understand the nature of this Christian Hope. This passage uses the powerful, nautical image of an anchor to show that our hope is not a fragile wish, but a spiritual, unshakable certainty (Day 297), secured for us by Jesus Christ's work in heaven.
The peace in this principle is found in eternal security:
Hope as an Anchor: Our hope is described as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. An anchor keeps a ship from drifting in a storm. Similarly, our hope keeps our soul steadfast (Day 339) and grounded amidst the storms of life (trials, Day 337) and the shifting tides of the world. It is the core of our eternal security (Day 297).
The Location of the Anchor: Crucially, our anchor is fixed, not in this world, but in the inner sanctuary behind the curtain—a reference to the most holy place in the temple, which symbolizes heaven itself. This means our security is guaranteed by a reality outside of our earthly circumstances.
The Forerunner and High Priest: Our hope is guaranteed because our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. A forerunner is one who scouts the path ahead. Jesus has secured our place in heaven. Furthermore, He is our High Priest forever, meaning He is continually interceding for us (The Spirit Intercedes, Day 319) and guaranteeing our access to God.
Your peace is secured by eternal security. Embrace Hope and Expectation today by firmly grasping this anchor for the soul. When the waves of doubt or fear rise, remind yourself that your future is firm and secure, fixed in heaven by the perfect work of Jesus Christ.
Reflective Question
When you feel overwhelmed by a "storm" (anxiety, sickness, loss), what do you typically rely on to keep you stable? How can you intentionally drop your anchor into the firm and secure reality that Jesus is your forerunner in heaven today?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to drift and to doubt Your promises when life is difficult. I thank You that we have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. I pray for the grace to trust fully in Jesus, my forerunner and High Priest. Secure my peace today in this powerful eternal security, and help me to live with the steadfastness that comes from The Anchor of Hope. Amen.
