“We . . . have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil” (Hebrews 6:18,19).

For those who have tasted God’s free gift of forgiveness, gaining salvation and life with the Savior for all eternity, an amazing peace and security awaits. A good analogy is that of a ship in a dreadful storm, cast about in the darkness and nearing unseen danger. But to find the safe harbor is to find a refuge.

The second verse of the precious hymn, “The Solid Rock,” tells of the Christian’s secure haven:

When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil.

Into each Christian’s life comes, from time to time, hardship and heartache, trials and tribulation. Some may even encounter persecution. “For unto you it is given [literally ‘graced’] in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake” (Philippians 1:29).

The certain knowledge of eternal life which we possess gives us the courage to face life’s difficulties and be victorious over them. Our faith, our steadfast, secure hope, is in “Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and was set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2).

Jesus has entered into the presence of God, and “He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5). Thus we are assured of access. As our text reveals, our “anchor of the soul” is anchored “within the veil,” in the presence of God for all eternity. JDM