Finding Your Anchor of Hope

The Hebrew word for hope, "tikvah," is derived from the verb "qawa", meaning to gather into strength or to hope. The verb "qawa" illustrates the process of intertwining multiple strands into a single, stronger rope. It signifies importance of gathering or collecting, as well as hoping or eagerly anticipating. How can you "gather" hope in the challenges you're currently facing?

In the second chapter of the book of Joshua in the Bible, there is a story about Rahab, a prostitute who assisted two Israelite spies in escaping capture while they were collecting information on Jericho. She promised to shield the spies in exchange for a pledge that she and her family would be spared when the Israelite army attacked and overtook her city.

Rahab hid the spies and, when it was safe, helped them escape by lowering them outside the city from her window using a rope. Desiring protection for herself and her family, Rahab requested a promise of safety. The spies told her to hang a "scarlet rope" in her window as a signal for her identification when the city was captured. This scarlet rope represented Rahab's hope and a tangible expectation of the promise being kept.

Hebrews 6:19 uses a similar metaphor for hope, depicting hope as an anchor. An anchor is a device that keeps a boat in place. Anchors are used to resist the wind and currents that try to move the vessel off course.

What storm are you currently facing? You can stay in prayer and intercession until you receive an anchor, a specific gift or grace, meant to bring you hope in your present challenge. This custom-designed anchor will ensure your boat remains stable, even amidst crashing waves and rocking motions. You can seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to discover your personal anchor or rope of hope to cling to during the various difficulties of your current biggest challenge.

“These heroes all died still clinging to their faith, not even receiving all that had been promised them. But they saw beyond the horizon the fulfillment of their promises and gladly embraced it from afar. They all lived their lives on earth as those who belonged to another realm.” - Hebrews 11:13 Passion