Even in Adversity the Anchor Holds
A popular song some years ago, “The Anchor Holds” remains a favorite today because it gives hope to the believer. Since I live in Louisiana, I have personally witnessed the adversities Louisiana folks have endured in past years resulting from the most devastating hurricanes and floods in our nation’s history. Some people never recovered from these hurricanes and floods. Others lost their sanity, physical health, and jobs. However, some survived these adversities. Symbolically speaking, hurricanes are somewhat like the adversities we face in our families, finances, and spiritual lives. And although no one truly understands why adversities come — God, in His sovereignty — has a reason for what He allows.
As an example of God’s protection and guidance, Joseph came to prominence after facing many adversities. He was sold into slavery by his own brothers (Gen. 37:23-28), accused falsely of sexually assaulting Potiphar’s wife, then imprisoned (39:6-20), and even forgotten by a man who promised to gain his release from prison (40:6-23). Yet in spite of these adversities, God exalted Him to second in command to Pharaoh (the king). Because of his adversities, Joseph saved the lives of many people in Egypt (Gen. 45:4-7), as well as his own brothers, whom he forgave for their wicked act (50:19-21).
Take some time to read Romans 5:1-11. Here in these verses you will find strength during your time of adversity, whatever it may be, because Christ — the Anchor — holds. There are “Five Anchors” in Romans 5:1-11 to help stabilize you, and give you the courage to “hold on” when you experience adversities. They are:
First Anchor – 1.) Realize that your faith gives you peace with God (v.1). God’s wrath no longer is directed at you because you have been “made righteous” by Christ’s atoning sacrifice. Adversity does happen, but you have access to God and may enter into His presence (Heb. 10:19) and ask Him for help.
Second Anchor—2.) Reflect on the hope that you have in Christ (v. 2). The word “hope” (Gk. elpizo) from a Scriptural view denotes “desire or wish.” New Testament writers use the word “hope” to express that we have trust in the Lord.
Third Anchor—3.) Recognize that God has a purpose for adversity (vv. 3-4). Nobody wants to suffer, but hard trials bring out the “pure gold” when one is driven to his or her knees. And from this comes true Christian character.
Fourth Anchor – 4.) Recall and reflect on God’s amazing love (vv. 6-8). These verses describe people who don’t have hope in Christ. They are without life and strength. They are ungodly, and the enemies of God because they haven’t believed in the only begotten Son of God (Jn. 3:36).
Fifth Anchor – 5.) Rejoice in Who God is. You have already been justified (OT term that means “made righteous” in the NT). Therefore, you have much to rejoice about because you’ve been delivered from the power (grip) of sin (vv. 9-11).
Christ, our Anchor, will keep us stable when we’re experiencing a storm in our lives. Study the “Five Anchors”—use them when you face adversity.