Hebrews 6:18, 19 (NKJV) that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. 19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, Hebrews 6:18, 19 (NLT) So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. 19 This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary. WORD STUDY Two Unchangeable Things. God's Promise, which in itself is absolutely trustworthy, and God's Oath confirming that promise (see note on v. 13). ...13 Ordinarily the swearing of an oath belongs to our fallen human situation, in which a person's word is not always trustworthy. God's swearing of an oath was a condescension to human frailty, thus making his word, which in itself is absolutely trustworthy, doubly dependable. [NIV SB 2020] The Two Unchangeable Things are God's promise/purpose and his oath. The character of God is holy, and he does not lie. Thus his announcement of his promise is sure, and doubly sure when combined with his oath. This encourages one to hold fast to the hope of God's promises. [ESV SB 2008] INTRODUCTION These two unchangeable things are God's promise and his oath. God embodies all truth; therefore, he cannot lie. Because God is truth, you can be secure in his promises; you don't need to wonder if he will change his plans. Our hope is secure and immovable, anchored in God, just as a ship's anchor holds firmly to the seabed. To the true seeker who comes to God in belief, God gives an unconditional promise of acceptance. When you ask God with openness, honesty, and sincerity to save you from your sins, he will do it. This truth should give you encouragement, assurance, and confidence. [Life Application SB] COMMENTARY A Good Anchor An anchor has one purpose--to steady the boat. To weather a blast of bad weather, you need a good anchor. You need one that can hook securely to an object that is stronger than the storm. Why? Because you have a valuable vessel. You have a soul. Your soul separates you from animals and unites you to God. And your soul needs an anchor. Your soul is fragile. It feels the pain of death and knows the questions of disease. Hence, your soul needs an anchor, a hooking point that is sturdier than the storm. This anchor is set not on a boat or person or possession. No, this anchor is set in "the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf' (vv. 19-20). Our anchor, in other words, is set in the very throne room of God. Beyond the reach of the devil and under the care of Christ. Since no one can take your Christ, no one can take your hope. [You Can Count On God by Max Lucado] An Anchor for Life A glance at the headlines of the daily newspaper ... A reading of our own emotions ... A look at our family ... It doesn't take much in this fast-moving, God-ignoring world to show us that we need an anchor for our lives. We find that anchor in Jesus. Our hope for this life and for eternity lies not in ourselves but in Christ. He is absolutely faithful to do what He has told us He will do - to forgive our sins, to guide our steps, to be with us always, and so much more. God always fulfills His promises to us. Our confidence in the future is therefore rooted in Him. In addition to being our anchor in this world, Jesus is also our "forerunner" for the next. Forerunner refers to small boats that help larger ships enter a harbor by carrying their anchor into a safe place and thus preparing the way for the larger ship. Jesus Himself precedes us into the harbor of heaven. He carries the anchor of our hope that is His resurrection victory over sin and death, and He makes way for our eternal future. No wonder the Christian is filled with such hope! [Being Still With God Every Day by Henry Blackaby] Our Great Confidence Not only do we find strength in the faithfulness of God, but there is comfort for our hurting souls as well. Is there an area where you need the comforting embrace of God's love? Hide yourself in the refuge of his heart; in that place you will be empowered to seize what is already available to you - an unshakeable hope. It is impossible for God to lie. He will not turn his back on those who look to him for help. Lean into the presence of the One who is for you. The Father runs to meet you when you turn to him, and the Comforter wraps his royal robes around you. You are so very loved. May the refuge of his presence be a balm to your soul and courage for your day. Declare the promises of God over your life today and direct your attention to his faithfulness. [365 Days of Courage by Sara Perry of Broadstreet Pub] LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY Romans 15:13: Hope, Joy and Peace are in a Relationship with Jesus. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240115-0738.html 2 Peter 1:4 - There Is Power In The Promises. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2013/20131129-2022.html LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT https://abible.com/links/