We Have An Anchor was one of the higher listed selections on a Songs of Praise Top 100 Hymns that I haven’t featured here on Sunday nights.
Anyone who has participated in Boys Brigade probably recalls hearing this too.
Priscilla Owen’s words and William J. Kirkpatrick’s tune have been pretty inseparable and are a reminder of how vivid maritime allusions used to be in everyday life.
The lyrics:
1
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
will your anchor drift, or firm remain?
Refrain:
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!
2
Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear,
when the breakers roar and the reef is near?
While the surges rave, and the wild winds blow,
shall the angry waves then your bark o’erflow?
Refrain
3
Will your anchor hold in the floods of death,
when the waters cold chill your latest breath?
On the rising tide you can never fail,
while your anchor holds within the veil.
Refrain
4
Will your eyes behold through the morning light
the city of gold and the harbour bright?
Will you anchor safe by the heavenly shore,
when life’s storms are past for evermore?
Refrain
A couple of renditions:
This is a Reggae version from Gloria Bailey dating back to the ’60s.
And Robin Mark leading at a men’s conference.
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