February 23
"He gives power to the faint and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." - Isaiah 40:29-31 (NRSV)
Weariness and fatigue can be part of the winter woes we experience in dark seasons of winter. Isaiah understood this situation only too well. He was facing a time when Israel was divided by civil war and about to be conquered by Assyria. But still, Isaiah speaks of having strength renewed and endurance offered that carried the people of God through all the pain they were about to face. This tells us our viewpoint can change even if our circumstances don’t. When we see God's perspective and embrace God's power, we can be filled with strength to overcome any challenging situation life may bring us. Whether it is the woes of winter, the weariness chronic illness brings, the stress of burnout, or the drain that too much loss can bring, remember that God is even more powerful! Even the strongest people get tired at times, but God's power and strength never diminish. He is never too tired or busy to help and listen. His strength is our source of strength. If you feel life crushing you and can't go another step, remember you can call on God to renew your strength.
Yet in challenging circumstances, it can be hard to wait. Waiting requires trust and faith in God and a belief our Lord not only wants to help us but actually will lift us up on wings like eagles and grant strength to soar high above our weariness, problems, and exhaustion. Trusting in God is the patient expectation that he will fulfill his promises in his Word and strengthen you to rise above life's difficulties. Do you believe God loves you and wants the best for you? Can you relax, confident his purposes are right? Are you convinced God has the power to control all of life and your life as well? Though your faith may be struggling or weak, accept his provisions and care for you today. Don't limit God's work in your life by underestimating him. He will keep his promises!
Prayer: Lord, Grant me eagle's wings to soar higher. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: God transforms weariness to strength!
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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