What does an apron, an anchor, and a national crisis have in common? On the face of things not much however in the hand of God and through the surrendered heart, these have become part of the fabric of faith and comfort and the lyrics of a beloved hymn.
Ruth Caye Jones, a Pennsylvania pastor’s wife and mother of five were discouraged by the headlines of World War II, the grind of daily war realities on the home front, and the anxiety a mother may naturally have in times like these for her children and their future. The story is told that Ruth Jones took these pressing concerns to the Lord and while reading the from 2 Timothy 3:1, “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty,” her confidence grew and worship stilled her heart. Reaching for a little note pad in her apron and recalling the mantle clocks melody playing in her head, the confluence of melody and words began to fashion a song of faith in the Lord known as “In Times Like These.”
The power of the joy-filled life is not in identifying the problem, any child on the playground can point out the bully. Strength comes when by faith and surrender, we apply the truths of scripture to the circumstances which toss our days like loose cargo on a hurricane swept ship. The lyrics offer the hope found in Jesus through the use of Hebrews 6:19 - “We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain.”
“In Times Like These” was penned during that dire and difficult period of world conflict and uncertainties. It became a tremendous balm for that time and for many since. We often say, “Jesus is the answer for the world today.” I’m confident that we will all learn the truth of this sentiment.
Blessings! Pastor Morgan Day
“In Times Like These”
Ruth Caye Jones. © 1944 New Spring CCLI Song # 11940
Verse 1
In times like these, you need a Savior, In times like these, you need an anchor
Be very sure be very sure, Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
Chorus
This Rock is Jesus yes He's the One ,This Rock is Jesus the only One
Be very sure be very sure, Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
Verse 2
In times like these, you need the Bible, In times like these oh be not idle
Be very sure be very sure ,Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
Verse 3
In times like these, I have a Savior, In times like these, I have an anchor
I'm very sure I'm very sure, My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock
Chorus 2
This Rock is Jesus yes He's the One, This Rock is Jesus the only One
I'm very sure I'm very sure, My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock