The Hebrew writer’s words are confusing to me. I think the two unchangeable things are God’s character and his word. I don’t think getting this right is what’s important about this passage.
We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 6:19-20 ESV)
It has been a difficult week. I had a very enjoyable Christmas day and then came down with a cold. I’ve spent the week reading, sleeping, and coughing. Reading has been enjoyable, but the coughing was painful. Through it all I knew that if I did the right things I’d be back to normal in 5-7 days. I appear to be right on track. So, through the illness I had hope.
The recipients of this letter are experiencing much more serious challenges. They are facing physical persecution that might result in the loss of their lives. I expect that there are many more challenges that result from living in that kind of environment. This passage is intended to encourage them and us by convincing us that we have hope in something that cannot and will not change.
God has a plan and a purpose for my life. His desire is that I be like him and be with him. This is my hope. This hope keeps me from drifting just like an anchor holds a ship in position despite the constant movement of the sea. The ship may roll from side to side and go up and down, but it stays where it is anchored if the anchor is gripping something that will not move. Hope in God is my anchor that will not move.
I don’t know what challenges today will bring. I do know that God is in control. That’s enough to keep me going.
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