“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint.”
– Isaiah 40:31
Isaiah 40 highlights the various circumstances Israel faced: their past circumstances (v1-11), the situations they would face soon (v12-26), and the doubts and troubles within them (27-31). They faced a difficult task and an impossible tomorrow. Just like the Israelites, we can associate with dire circumstances. The world faces a financial crisis, and many people experience an increase in debt and living costs. Personally, the regrets of the past, the challenges of the present, the uncertainties of tomorrow, and ever-changing conditions create anxiety for many. However, it is not so much our outward circumstances that determine if we can be successful in the challenges of our time but rather our position in Christ and personal walk with God.
In Isaiah 40:31 the word ‘wait’ does not suggest that we sit around and do nothing. It means to expect, to look up, and to hope in God for all that we need (Isaiah 26:3). The word ‘renew’ means to change or to exchange your strength and power, as if putting off old clothing and putting on a new garment. So, as we make time and wait upon the Lord, we receive the strength and power to face the demands of life. God is more than able and willing to help with such demands; but, He is waiting. We are a generation who does not enjoy waiting. We rush through life without stopping. Maybe, God is allowing our current circumstances to slow us down so that we can wait upon Him. Perhaps, God is trying to tell us that we are not heavenly minded, not soaring high enough. We work hard and have even achieved success, and yet our fellowship with God is not as tender as it ought to be. In these circumstances, God stirs the nest and allows trials, crisis, or challenges.
Are you tired? Are you discouraged? Are you overwhelmed? Are you ready to throw in the towel? At times, we may feel so worn out and stressed that we are not sure if we can go on or take the next step. It is just work, work, work, stress, and one crisis after the other, as we give ourselves to the ministry or loved ones. We regularly invest our time and money but become weary in body, mind, and soul, sometimes ending up in despair and feeling like a failure. According to Isaiah 40:31, we can do all these same things and yet not be weary in spirit and carry on in the joy and strength of our Lord. God knew what the Israelites were facing, and yet He knew that they could experience God’s peace and power amidst their trials. He wants us to share in His bountiful provisions despite our circumstances.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the courage to face up to my problems and challenges; wisdom in what I need to do; strength to do it; and, the faith to trust and rest in you. Amen