Those Who Hope in the Lord Will Renew Their Strength
Date: August 18, 2024
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse in NIV (Isaiah 40:31) But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of renewed strength. Help us to place our hope firmly in You, especially when we feel weak or discouraged. Teach us to wait on You and trust in Your perfect timing. May we experience the strength and endurance that comes from relying on You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
E - Explore the History and meaning Isaiah was speaking to the Israelites who were facing exile and feeling hopeless. This verse is part of a larger passage where God is reminding His people of His power and faithfulness. The imagery of soaring eagles, running without weariness, and walking without fainting illustrates the supernatural strength and endurance God provides to those who trust in Him.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
"Hope in the Lord" - Placing trust and expectation in God
"Renew their strength" - God's power to refresh and reinvigorate
"Soar on wings like eagles" - Represents rising above circumstances with God's help
S - Summarize and Share (Savoring God's Promises theme) Oh, my dear friends, isn't this promise from Isaiah like a breath of fresh mountain air? It's a promise we can savor deeply, especially when we're feeling worn out and weary.
You know, life can sometimes feel like we're trudging uphill, doesn't it? Maybe you're going through a difficult season right now, feeling exhausted and wondering if you can take another step. If that's you, I want you to take a moment and really let this promise sink into your soul.
God says that when we hope in Him – when we place our trust and expectation in Him – He will renew our strength. Isn't that beautiful? It's like God is offering us a divine energy drink, but instead of a quick caffeine hit that wears off, this is a deep, lasting renewal.
And oh, the wonderful images Isaiah uses! He says we'll soar on wings like eagles. Have you ever watched an eagle soar? They don't flap frantically; they spread their wings and let the air currents lift them. That's what God is promising us – the ability to rise above our circumstances, carried by His strength.
Then he says we'll run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint. This isn't just about physical energy; it's about having the spiritual and emotional endurance to keep going, to keep trusting, to keep hoping, even when the road is long and hard.
When we savor this promise, really letting it soak into our hearts, it changes our perspective on the challenges we face. Instead of looking at the mountain ahead and feeling overwhelmed, we can look to our God who promises us the strength to climb it.
So today, let's practice savoring this promise. When you feel tired, whisper it to yourself: "God will renew my strength." When you face a difficult task, remind yourself: "I can soar on wings like eagles." When you're tempted to give up, declare: "I will run and not grow weary."
Remember, dear ones, this promise is for you. Whatever you're facing, however exhausted you may feel, God is inviting you to hope in Him and experience His strength. That's a promise worth savoring every single day.
3 Bible Cross References:
Philippians 4:13
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Psalm 46:1
Question for the audience: In what area of your life do you most need God's renewing strength right now? Share a word or short phrase in the comments, and let's lift each other up in prayer for God's strength to soar above our challenges!