Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; — Hebrews 6:19
We often hear the word “anchor” shared in religious circles. Hymns and other songs have often used the word. Even with all the discussion and song, the word only appears once in the Bible.
The only reference to an anchor comes in Hebrews and is used in reference to hope. When you think about the idea of an anchor and the concepts of hope, it certainly seems that the two words would never belong together in a sentence. An anchor is thought of as a means of safety and security while hope is typically a feeling or longing.
The writer explains the hope in the comment “which entereth into that within the veil.” The reference refers to the veil in the temple that signified the separation from God. That veil was torn with Christ’s death on the cross, giving us direct access to God.
So our hope is not really a feeling, but rather placing faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. The reminder is that because of this act, we have direct access to God and an anchor for our souls that is both safe and secure, just like the safety and security that an anchor would provide a ship.
As Christians, we have an anchor that will hold us safe and secure, no matter what may come our way in life. It is exciting to know that we are safe and secure in action that is already finished. It does not rely on our words or our works, it simply relies on our faith. What is your hope anchored in? Are you counting on your own works and words for safety and security, or are you relying on the finished work of Jesus Christ?
