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. Isaiah 40:31 NIV
Scholars translate this verse from the prophet Isaiah with slight differences in their choice of words. Some translate the Hebrew word “wə·qō·w·yê” to the English language as the word “hope.” Others translate the same word as “wait.” What is clear from the scripture is that Isaiah credits the renewal of strength to trusting in God. Those who hope or wait for the Lord soar like eagles rising above the challenges of this world.
The New International Version uses the word “hope” in this often-quoted scripture. But, what is hope? To some, hoping for something is about the same as wishing for it. In scripture, hope is something more than that. Biblical hope is the confident expectation of what God has promised. It is a firm belief in the faithfulness of God.
Wait Upon the Lord
Alternatively, the New King James Version of this scripture reads, “but those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength.” The indication is that we are developing patience and strengthening our faith by hoping or waiting for God to move in our lives.
And yet, we do not wait without practicing our faith. While hoping and waiting to see God move in our lives, we are actively living lives of love and devotion to the will of God. As the prophet described, the faithful run without growing weary and soar like eagles. We do not expect to know God’s timing, but we do have faith that he will fulfill his promises. We sow the seed, but God sets the season for the harvest.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for giving me hope and for helping me to develop my faith with your word. Renew my strength so that I may soar like eagles. Increase my faith that I may run and not grow weary, that I may walk in your way and not grow faint. In Jesus’ name – Amen.”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Delight in Difficulties
