Will your anchor hold in the storms of life?

By Rev William Anderson, Sovereign Grand Master

When I reflect on how much our lives have changed in recent weeks, it’s as if we have stepped into a different world. The things that we thought were secure are no longer secure, much has changed around us and for us. So in this time of great uncertainty, what are we do? I am reminded of the words of what is commonly referred to as the Boys’ Brigade hymn. The opening line asks the question: “Will your anchor hold in the storms of life?”  The response in the chorus being: “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.”

We need to remember that God rules over all things, including viruses, and this has not caught Him unawares. A little word in the first two verses of Psalm 23 comes to mind. There, in the middle of those wonderful lines, “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside quiet waters”, is the word “makes”. Although we all desire freedom and the ability to do what we want, we are like sheep and our wise Shepherd may, when it suits him, make us lie down. God has his purposes for us in this difficult time, let’s resolve to make the most of them.

But how? I hear you ask. Well, why not consider that, in this self-isolation, God is gifting us with time. So let’s use our time wisely in two ways. Firstly, let us take the time to pray and to read the Bible – by doing so we can better understand what God’s will and direction for our lives is meant to be. Secondly, take the time to have those telephone conversations with our loved ones, and to share your faith by email, video message or letter with those who are frightened and worried about their future.

It is at times like this that the Christian message of hope is so important – however, we must not only tell people of that message, we must also demonstrate it through our love in practical ways. This way we can help those around us know that “We have an anchor that keeps the soul, Steadfast and sure while the billows roll.”

May you all stay safe at this challenging time and remain secure, knowing that you are “Grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love”.