This is a repost of an original post by Hymns of Praise on Facebook, a page worth visiting.
This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil,
Hebrews 6:19 (NASB1995)
“Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?”
These stirring words come from one of the most beloved gospel hymns of the late nineteenth century. The hymn was written by Priscilla Jane Owens (1829–1907), an American teacher and hymn writer who devoted much of her life to teaching children in Sunday school. She wrote many hymns, but “Will Your Anchor Hold?” became her most enduring legacy.
Owens had a special gift for creating vivid imagery that communicated deep spiritual truths. Drawing inspiration from Hebrews 6:19, which describes hope in Christ as “an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast,” she crafted a hymn that compares the Christian life to a ship sailing through dangerous seas. The hymn asks a searching question: when life’s storms arrive, what is keeping you secure?
The powerful nautical imagery was especially meaningful during an era when maritime travel played a major role in everyday life. Sailors depended on strong anchors to prevent their ships from being swept away by fierce winds and turbulent waters. Owens used this familiar picture to remind believers that faith in Jesus Christ provides stability amid trials, temptations, suffering, and uncertainty.
The hymn was first published in 1882. Its memorable tune was composed by William James Kirkpatrick (1838–1921), a prolific musician and hymn composer who worked closely with many gospel writers of his day. Kirkpatrick’s energetic melody helped make the hymn popular in churches, revival meetings, Sunday schools, and evangelistic gatherings across the English-speaking world.
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At the heart of the hymn is a repeated affirmation:
“We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll;
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love.”
The “Rock” in the refrain refers to Christ, emphasizing that believers can remain secure not because of their own strength, but because they are anchored in God’s unchanging love and faithfulness.
More than a century after it was written, “Will Your Anchor Hold?” continues to resonate with Christians facing personal struggles, societal upheaval, and spiritual challenges. Its message remains timeless: storms are inevitable, but those whose hope is anchored in Christ can stand firm through every trial.
Dear Reader, I loved this article from Hymns of Praise about a dear hymn to my heart. I first came across it as a new Christian in the Salvation Army in Lochgelly, as I helped out in the Boy’s Brigade who have this hymn as their anthem. Little did I know then that a lifetime of loving nautical themes to describe faith in Christ had begun. Unsurprisingly, lifeboats and lighthouses also play a big role in guiding my faith meditations in my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, without Whom I would be lost at sea indeed. I pray that you, too, know Him as your Anchor in the storms of this world.
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