Reflections based on Isaiah 40:10–31.

The last line of this passage describes a deep, inner strength, one that I have experienced even in the midst of draining times. We joined the church that my husband is now pastor of when it was first ‘planted’ from another church. There was just a tiny handful of us, so everything that needed doing was down to us. Staying within the leadership has meant that has continued to a certain degree – many other willing hands have joined but life can still be fraught. I certainly don’t always feel like I am soaring, but I notice such a difference when I bring all my everyday tasks before God and ask Him for inspiration, strength and concentration. 

I love this chapter from Isaiah as it seems to encompass so much of what we’ve looked at during our study of hope: God’s total sovereignty and power but also His deep care for us. While we may not understand everything He does, by placing our hope in Him we can indeed be renewed in our spirits.

Spend some time hidden away with Him today, allowing Him to minister to those areas you are beginning to feel weary in. And, as we enter the joyous season of Christmas, I recognise that for many it can be stressful and over busy, and for others painfully difficult. So may I leave you with a quote from our passage to dwell on. I love the image of His tender care:

He tends his flock like a shepherd:
    He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart.

Optional further reading: Psalm 62; Proverbs 23:17–18 and 24:14–20.