My anchor holds
Several years ago, when I had more time, I loved to go trout fishing. We have a great trout fishing stream in North Arkansas known as the White River. The White River has a large dam that creates Bull Shoals Lake, a great fishing place in its own right, with anglers coming from all over the nation to fish there. I don’t know how many feet, but the dam is high, really high, and when water is released from the bottom, it is cold and swift as the water snakes its way through the mountains. This is prime habitat for trout, as they must have cold water to survive. The swift water flowing through the dam is also used to generate electricity.
Trout fishermen primarily fish below the dam, and there are several boat docks and rental places where you can rent a boat, motor and everything else you need to “wet a hook,” as they say. Because the water is so swift, especially when they are generating, you need an “anchor” to throw out if you do not want to be swept along with the current. When you throw out the anchor, if the water is really swift, it may take a while before it hangs up on a rock and your boat is brought to a secure position.
As I thought about what I wanted to share with you today, this analogy came to mind. In reality, a fast-moving river is really a picture of life, as we move along at a fast pace and deal with the trials and tribulations that come along each day. Sometimes these trials and tribulations become so overwhelming that we often seem to be losing ground, as we attempt to succeed and reach the goals we have set for ourselves. At this point, let me pause and ask you this question: Are you facing some things in your life that you just can’t seem to overcome? It could be health problems, financial distress, a failed marriage, problems with children or grandchildren, a conflict with your employer or with an employee, a battle with drugs or alcohol. Of course, there are myriad other problems that many people experience from time to time.
As I look back over the past several years, I have come to the realization that I have skills and knowledge now that I did not have 20 to 30 years ago. I hope the same is also true for you. It has been said that people are like plants. When we stop growing, we start dying. The past few months have been so rewarding, as I have read a number of good books that have been very enlightening. You know, we should read for profit, but we should also read for pleasure. I have a couple of good friends who share books with me, and in turn, I share some of mine with them. If you are not already doing this, it is an idea you might want to try. Reading is so important.
Recently, I discovered a song that has also helped me tremendously titled, “The Anchor Holds,” written by Lawrence Chewning and sung by Ray Boltz, copyright 1994, Word Music Company. Listen to the words of the chorus and you will see what I mean: “The anchor holds, though the ship is battered. The anchor holds in spite of the storm. Well, I have fallen on my knees, as I faced the raging sea. But the anchor holds in spite of the storm.”
There is much more, and I would encourage you to get this song and listen to it when you also need a lift. It has been such a blessing to me and I believe it will bless you, too. Every day I thank God and say — My Anchor Holds. I am also grateful for the love and support that you give me each and every day. To be sure, we are a needy people, especially in these times. In my simple mind, trusting God and asking for His blessings is the only way to live.