Renewing Our Strength in God
But they 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 40:31
What is the meaning of Isaiah 40:31?
Isaiah 40 marks a transition in the book of Isaiah. At the end of chapter 39, Isaiah prophecies that the Israelites will be conquered by the Babylonians and carried off into exile. As chapter 40 unfolds Isaiah’s message transitions from warnings of impending judgment to hope of restoration.
The Israelites have been conquered and taken into exile by the Babylonians, and they were in a state of despair and questioning their faith. In chapter 40, Isaiah begins to speak words of comfort and hope to the exiles, telling them that their time in exile will come to an end and that God will restore them to their land.
The literary context of Isaiah 40:31 is the theme of God's power and sovereignty. The chapter begins with the declaration that God will come in power to judge the nations and to comfort his people. Throughout the chapter, Isaiah emphasizes the power and sovereignty of God in contrast to the weakness and insignificance of idols and human leaders. Isaiah 40:31 is a key verse in this theme. It emphasizes that people who put their trust in God will be renewed with strength, and will be able to endure difficult circumstances without losing hope.
How to Wait on the Lord
Isaiah 40:31 says, "But those who wait for 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." The meaning of this verse can be understood by analyzing a few key words and phrases.
"Those who wait for the Lord" refers to the Israelites who have placed their trust in God during the exile. They are placing their hope in God for their deliverance.
"Will renew their strength" suggests that they will experience revitalization and restoration. They won’t be victims of despair because of their circumstances. Placing their hope in God will strengthen their resolve to withstand their current circumstances.
"Soar on wings like eagles" is a metaphor for flying with ease and grace, indicating that they will be able to overcome the obstacles they face with confidence.
"Run and not grow weary" suggests that they will be able to maintain their momentum and endurance in the face of adversity, not giving in to discouragement.
"Walk and not be faint" suggests that they will be able to continue on their journey with steady and persevering steps, without losing their resolve.
The verse is a message of comfort and hope for the Israelites in exile, telling them that if they put their trust in God, they will be renewed with strength and will be able to endure their difficult circumstances.
God is the one who gives us strength. We should rely on Him, especially in difficult times, in order to overcome the obstacles we face.
Here are some specific ways that we can renew our strength in the Lord by waiting on Him:
Pray: Waiting on the Lord through prayer is a powerful way to renew our strength. It allows us to communicate with God, share our hearts with Him, and hear from Him.
Read the Bible: Reading the Bible is a way to connect with God and gain understanding of His will and ways. It is also a way to hear from Him and learn from the stories of people in the Bible who have overcome obstacles with God’s help.
Worship: Worship is a way to focus on God and His greatness. It helps us to remember that He is sovereign and in control, and that He is worthy of our praise.
Practice silence and solitude: Waiting on the Lord also means being still and listening. By practicing silence and solitude, we can quiet our minds and hearts and listen for God's voice.
Practice patience: Waiting on the Lord also means being patient. It means not giving up, not losing hope, and not giving in to discouragement. It means persevering in trusting God, even when we don't see immediate results.
Practice obedience: Waiting on the Lord also means being obedient to His word and His will. It means following His commands, even when they don't make sense to us, and even when we don't feel like it.
By doing these things, we can renew our strength in the Lord by waiting on Him. It's not always easy, but when we make it a habit, it will become easier. And as we wait on the Lord, we will find that He renews us in ways that we couldn't have imagined.
Questions for Reflection
What obstacles are you currently facing?
What practical steps can you take to renew your strength in the Lord?
A Prayer for Renewal
Dear Lord,
I come to you today seeking spiritual renewal. I know that I have been feeling weary and in need of a refreshing touch from you. I confess that I have been relying on my own strength and wisdom, and I realize that I need to turn to you and trust in you for my strength and perseverance.
I ask that you would renew my spirit, that I may have a deeper understanding and connection with you. Help me to have a renewed sense of purpose and direction in my life, and to have a renewed passion for serving you.
I put my trust in you, knowing that you are the source of my strength. I ask that you would give me the strength to endure difficult circumstances, and the perseverance to continue on the path you have set before me.
I also ask that you would give me the wisdom to discern your will and to have the courage to follow it, even when it is hard.
I thank you for your faithfulness and the promises you have made to those who trust in you. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
