Walking by Faith One Day at a TimeSample

Anchored in the Storm

There wasn't a cloud in the sky, and the temperature was just right for spending a fun-filled day boating on the water. Throughout the afternoon we had a great time water skiing, tubing, and swimming. In fact, we had become so engrossed in the fun that we didn't notice the thick clouds forming off in the distance.

Tired and needing a break from the sun, we headed for a shady cove. With the boat securely anchored it was time to relax for a little while. Our peaceful day, however, was about to take a turn for the worse.

Without warning the sky grew dark, and a powerful wind plowed through the valley. In the distance lightning flashed and thunder rumbled, announcing the arrival of a summer storm. We needed to get our boat back to the marina!

In our panic we almost took off with the boat still tethered to the anchor. Realizing our mistake, my husband turned off the engine and scrambled to the front of the boat. He began pulling with all his might, but the anchor wouldn't budge.

Seeing him struggle, the kids and I gathered by his side to offer help. The anchor was obviously caught on something very large at the bottom of the lake, but what?

After several pulls on the rope, we got our answer. Like the scene from a horror movie, a rotted old tree slowly arose from its watery grave. We couldn't believe what we were seeing. Our anchor had attached itself to a fallen tree at the bottom of the lake. Just when my husband was about to cut the anchor line, the tree broke loose and we were free, heading to safety.

I wonder how many of us go through life thinking we are securely anchored in our faith, only to find, in the midst of a storm, we have tethered ourselves to the wrong hold.

The storms of life will reveal the foundation of our anchor. But when our faith and hope are in Jesus, we have nothing to fear.

The Lord is our refuge and strength, our shelter in the tempest. In Him, we can weather any storm, safe and secure.

Life Application

What are some past "anchors" you clung to, thinking they would keep you safe, but ended up failing you in the end? What was your greatest lesson learned through that experience?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I thank you for being my only safe and secure hold when trials, challenges, and heartaches come my way. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on you, no matter what comes my way.