Let Go the Anchors

Now when it was day, they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned if possible to run the ship ashore. So they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, at the same time loosening the ropes that tied the rudders. Then hoisting the foresail to the wind they made for the beach. 

But striking a reef, they ran the vessel aground. The bow stuck and remained immovable, and the stern was being broken up by the surf. The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any should swim away and escape. But the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land, and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all were brought safely to land. (Acts 27:39-44)

Very often we find anchors in our lives that hold us back from the place Christ is taking us. Storms come and winds blow and we want all things familiar. Everything must make sense to us and we seem unable to live by faith alone.

But one day Christ calls us to “let go the anchors.” The old things have passed away and it’s time for all things new.

Some anchors are people. Some are places. Some are things. Some are behaviors and habits. Regardless, each must be let go and left in the sea should Christ call you into greater things with Him. As we let go…we let God.

Ask Jesus if there are any anchors holding you back from the immeasurably more He wants to do in your life and ministry.

There is a land which Christ steers you

But fear has grasped your heart

The tempest storms have captured you

And the waves swell high and warn.

Have you yet tried to lighten the load

Of excess that carries weight

And check, dear one, for anchors dropped

That keeps you from your place.

Do break your bread and thank the Lord

For He is at the helm

Even when the stern is broken wide

It’s all part of His plan.

He’s sent the wind to catch the sails

But stuck you are between waves

Let go the anchors and cut the ropes

In this you will be safe.

Resist the thoughts of natural man

For Christ has set His course

Let go the anchors and rudder ropes

And follow His sweet voice.

See anchors holds are good at times

But this time not His road

Do leave them in the sea, my friend,

And let the anchors go…

“Anchor”

: a device usually of metal attached to a ship or boat by a cable and cast overboard to hold it in a particular place…

: a reliable or principal support

: something that serves to hold an object firmly