Anchored in God’s Word

By Dr. Charles Stanley

When the storms of life come, we can react in anger and resist the spiritual lessons God has for us. Or we can learn to respond in faith, trusting Him to meet our needs in spite of adversity. In this fallen world, we can expect to face trouble and difficulty. But God’s Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm (Life Principle #3). This study will explore the different ways Scripture provides believers with guidance, strength, and stability.

1. The Scriptures encourage us in the truth..

What are some benefits of reading biblical stories of God’s work with and through people (Rom. 15:4)?
According to Galatians 6:8-10, why should we not grow weary in doing good?
Name at least one way you could put verse 10 into practice today.

Hebrews 11 is often called the “Hall of Faith.” It catalogs many of the Old Testament saints who faithfully served God despite incredible adversity.

Hebrews 12 uses an analogy from the Roman games—running a race. What sort of things “encumber” or distract you from wholeheartedly following Christ (v. 1)?
In what way can reading the Scriptures help us “fix our eyes on Jesus” (vv. 2-3)?
How can thinking about what Jesus suffered inspire you to endure your present trials (vv. 2-3)?

2. The Word of God calls us to holiness

Reading, memorizing, and meditating upon Scripture—if done with humility—almost always inspires us to live righteously.

Read Psalm 119:9-11. How can a believer walk in purity?
What do you think it means to treasure God’s Word in your heart?
Hebrews compares the word of God to a two-edged sword. Why do you think this is an effective analogy (Heb. 4:12-13
Why is Scripture reading generally more effective at correcting wrong thinking than a friend’s rebuke or a powerful sermon? (See the end of verse 12.)
Second Timothy 3:16 says that “all Scripture is inspired by God.” After reading the entire verse, describe some useful purposes for the Bible.
How does a thorough knowledge of Scripture benefit a believer (v. 17)?

3. Scripture provides wisdom for daily life.

The Bible is filled with practical advice on a variety of topics—from getting along in marriage to making wise business decisions.

How does God’s Word make the simple person wise (Ps. 19:7)?
King David had a special love for the Word of God. What are two practical ways the Scriptures benefited him (Ps. 119:98-100)?
What did meditating—or reflecting—upon the Word of God accomplish in Joshua’s life (Josh. 1:8-9)?

4. The Bible leads us to correct doctrine.

What we believe about the nature of God, the person of Christ, and the plan of salvation has tremendous practical implications. Knowing the Bible also helps us witness more effectively and protects us from false teaching.

Name one reason why Timothy’s foundation in the Hebrew Scriptures was so beneficial to him (2 Tim. 3:14-16).
How could you answer someone who claimed that people had to earn salvation—or entrance into heaven—by good deeds (Eph. 2:8-9)?
How could you encourage Christians who are convinced they are beyond the point of forgiveness (Heb. 8:1-2)?
Many religions believe God is wrathful and quick to judge. Although Scripture records His anger, what does Psalm 86 reveal about the essential nature of the Father?

5. Scripture anchors us in God’s perspective.

This is probably the Bible’s most important role in times of storm. Most of our problems seem small when we view them in light of eternity.

Read Romans 12:2. Renewing our minds requires that we adjust our thinking to match scriptural truth. Why do you think Bible study is one of the most powerful ways to do this?
Scripture refreshes our outlook by reminding us what “pure and undefiled religion” is. Explain three things that mark genuine Christian faith, according to James (1:26-27).

The Word of God also reveals the end of time and the coming judgment—of both believers and non-believers.

How does 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 inspire you to please the Lord?

At the end of time, the earth will pass away and a new, flawless earth will be created.

What are some of the differences between eternity and the present day (vv. 3, 4, 8)?
How does remembering the world’s future end help you maintain perspective on your daily struggles?

Conclusion: When the storms of life come, make time to read and meditate on God’s Word. As you do, the Father will meet you, redirect your thoughts, and set you on course again.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I’m grateful for the gift of Your Word. Forgive me for ignoring—or taking for granted—my access to the Bible. Please, awaken in me a greater appreciation of the Scriptures. And grant me the grace I need to read Your Word more frequently and thoughtfully. Amen.