Finding an Anchor
Over a month ago as I planned my intentions for the weeks leading up to Easter, this week was a time I wanted to focus on memorizing scripture. This also happens to be the week that I find myself waking up at 4am consistently filled with swirling anxious thoughts. Coincidence? I don’t think so.
I’m pretty sure I am not the only one feeling a little uncertain. As the waves of emotion and doubt come, the heartbreaking what-ifs, and the helpless, endless cycle of thoughts, we need to find an anchor for our feelings. Something that we can shore up each and every thought against, searching for hope in a story bigger than the world around us.
For me, that anchor is and will always be the Bible, the very Word of God.
As I write more each day, it is beautiful to think of God as the original author. The bible is his story book of narratives detailing His faithfulness through countless storms in recorded history. It is his love letter to us, reminding us we are his beloved, made in his image with a profound purpose on earth that ends in our good and his glory. It is his truth-telling tale, warning us of what is to come and assuring us that he is our only hope for true life and true joy.
While I attest to the living and active nature of the Bible, and view it as absolute truth written through people inspired by the voice of God, I would be remiss to assume all of us hold that same view. Maybe you did not grow up with exposure to the Christian scriptures or view the Bible as anything other than a well-written history book. Perhaps you aren’t sure what to believe, but are open to diving into scripture more to see what it really says. Either way, I’m glad you are here. Read along with me and see how the Word can speak to you wherever you are today.
Maybe you will find that anchor your heart is longing for in this season and begin to hide it in your heart.
Ruth Chou Simons, GraceLaced
An Old Testament book, referred to as the Psalms, is a compilation of songs written in their poetic form that cover every human emotion, many from the perspective of a sinful, yet humble King. In Psalm 119, we are reminded in over a hundred verses why the Word of God is critical for us on this journey of life.
May I encourage you to sense the urgency of our days, ponder these truths, wrestle with them, recite them on the daily and then hide them in your heart for the battles ahead?
Prayer
God help me to meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.” - Psalm 119:15,18 ESV
Meditation
Meditate on the benefits of scripture as seen in this one particular chapter, Psalm 119, and let your heart find delight in the reminders of hope and truth and life.
The Word of God is:
My delight and my counselor.
Psalm 119:24 “Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors.”
2. My strength.
Psalm 119:28 “My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your Word.
3. My life.
Psalm 119:37 “Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.
4. My comfort.
Psalm 119:52 “When I think of your rules from of old, I take comfort, O Lord.”
5. My blessing.
Psalm 119:55 “I remember your name in the night, O Lord, and keep your law. This blessing has fallen to me…
6. My discerning voice.
Psalm 119:66 “Teach me good judgement and knowledge for I believe in your commandments.
7. My hope.
Psalm 119:81 “My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word.
8. My understanding.
Psalm 119:104, 130 “Through your precepts I get understanding. The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.”
9. My hiding place and shield.
Psalm 119:114 “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.”
10. My joy.
Psalm 119:111 “Your testimonies are the joy of my heart.”
Anyone else need these now more than ever? Search for them in the Word of God. Incline your ear to His voice. Treasure them up in your heart for this journey ahead.
Resources:
One of the best ways to begin to memorize scripture is to have it with you at all times. These free scripture cards are both beautiful and useful from one of my favorite designers.
Appreciate the art of scripture with GraceLaced.
Can the bible be trusted? You may want to check out this free eight-week class, Can You Trust the Bible from Dallas Theological Seminary. It is one that is on my list, as I seek to gain a greater understanding of the all-sufficiency of scripture.
Purchase a study bible where you can read and study on your own. I have this one in the English Standard Version.
Find a bible study to help apply what you read. She Reads Truth is a great resource, but there are so many.
I am always happy to help direct you if you are looking for something in particular.
Psalm 119:160 “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.”