In Alberta there’s an interesting highway that runs north/south along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It’s been dubbed “The Cowboy Trail” (Route 22) because of all the ranches along its route. Being close to the mountains, wildlife often wanders down into ranchland and causes a few problems. Frequent visitors are bald eagles which you can easily spot soaring through valleys and over meadows.

In Isaiah 40:27-31, Israel was under stress from military threats, and people were becoming worn out. They complained and said that God didn’t notice their troubles and wasn’t concerned about them anymore. Have you ever felt that way?

God heard their complaint and sent a message through Isaiah that is surprising. He said God never gets weary or tired and His understanding of His people is inscrutable (beyond our powers to know). He said that when he sees his people weary, He gives them strength. When they lack might, He increases His power towards them. Even in circumstances that would wear out vigorous young men, God will give new strength to those “who wait for the Lord.”

He ends the passage with a great thought that many have pondered. “They will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.” (v31)        There’s nothing like the eagle’s ability to make difficult things – like flying – seem so easy and effortless.  This is what God promises: life gets a whole lot easier when we turn to Him for help. What a great God who would promise us such tremendous things.

So, what is the secret when we are stressed, worn out and suspect that nobody knows or cares? Remember that God is not ignoring you; He knows all about your situation. Remember that He is always willing to give people strength when they run out of their own. These blessings are for those who wait for the Lord. With help like that we can soar like eagles again.

– Tim Johnson