Isaiah 40:31
But those who wait on 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.
On the wall above my desk is a very special framed piece of counted cross stitch. It has an eagle in flight and the words of today’s Scripture — and it has a very special place in my heart. It was a birthday gift from our daughter, Brenda, back in 1991.
Brenda had been working on it for my birthday in March. She was desperately ill, which slowed down her work. But Brenda said that even though she had not finished it for my birthday, she was determined to complete it before she went to be with the Lord. Brenda presented her gift to me just a few days before her death.
Each time I glance up to that framed scripture of Isaiah 40:31 on the wall, I recall Brenda’s labor of love. It means much more to know that she was thinking of her dad as she made each stitch.
This fantastic verse reminds us of one of God’s most precious promises: When we wait on the Lord, He will renew our strength. We get into trouble when we attempt to develop our own strength instead of waiting for Him. Anytime people run ahead of God and rely upon their own strength, they get into trouble. On the other hand, when people inquire of the Lord and wait for Him to lead, they are rewarded with His power.
The thought I want to leave with us today is that we need to spend our time in fellowship with the Lord. Reading His Word, speaking with Him in prayer, and listening patiently for His still small voice to guide us. Not running ahead of Him or lagging behind Him, but walking close at His side.
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil