Hope as an Anchor for My Soul

Drifting. It is a clear sunny day on the lake with a gentle breeze blowing as I cast my fishing line as far as I can. “Now, this is the life I really enjoy!” I think to myself. The waves lap against the side of the boat in a soothing rhythm that can make me feel a little sleepy. No stress for me when I am fishing. The world is so far away.

I notice that there is a bed of weeds coming up, and that my line is in danger of getting snagged, so I reel it in. Soon, weeds are all around me, and I notice that I am closer to the shoreline than when I first started fishing. Annoyed, I have to either start the motor, or start rowing back to where I really want to be.

Currents. It is deceptive how strong they are under my boat, carrying me where I did not want to go! Life is like this, with the social currents all around me influencing where I go, what I do and what I say, even what I think.

I have noticed a lot of drifting and currents, both outside and within me. And while in some ways having an anchor on my boat might feel a bit restrictive while fishing, it does serve a purpose!

When my thoughts drift, I need an anchor! Hope is that anchor that will keep me tethered to the right thinking, words and actions. Hope will give me a reason to stay positive when negative, unsolicited messages float through my subconscious, trying to take me where I do not really want to go. Hope diffuses the waves of depression, anger, sadness, worry and hate. Hope holds firm against the waves of selfishness or pride.

Father God, thank you for giving us the anchor of hope for our souls. Please help us to see the value of having an anchor when the waves and currents threaten our boats. Amen.

Throughout this Day: Have you been drifting lately? Perhaps you do not like where your boat is right now. Ask God to restore you, your thoughts and actions. Latch onto hope, and let it anchor you where you really should be.

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