By Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman
An experienced sailor never leaves port without at least one anchor on board. He knows that storms may come while at sea and that the anchor will help secure and steady the ship during those storms. Our lives are like long-distance sailing journeys. Storms will hit when we least expect them. So it's foolhardy to set sail in life without an "anchor" on board.
When buffeted by a life-storm such as foreclosure, abandonment, or a life-threatening disease-without an "anchor," we will be tossed from discouragement to desperation to depression and even defeat. Hopeless, we may stop trying and cease believing we will survive the storm-much less reach our final destination.
Jesus is the only "anchor" strong enough to hold us steady during the stormy times of life, giving us enough faith to keep us from sliding aimlessly or sinking hopelessly.
There is no such thing as false hope-especially if our hope is anchored in Jesus. Hope always prevails. Hope never fails! Even if the doctor tells you there is no hope for a cure-hope anyway. Even when your family tells you there is no hope for reconciliation-hope anyway.
Hope changes everything! Hope changes our attitude-from being negative and defeated to being optimistic, looking for possibilities. If we are anchored in Christ, he will give us the faith we need to ride out the storm. And when the storm clouds clear-and they will-no matter in what port we find ourselves, we will be right where we should be and we won't be alone! We'll be surrounded by those who love us. And we will know the Captain of our soul more intimately than we ever dreamed.
So, go ahead and hope. Hope in Jesus Christ. He is the anchor you and I need to weather the storms of life, bringing us through to live the glorious life God has in store for each one of us.
