Isaiah 40:30-31 NIV [30] Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; [31] 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.
Soaring Above the Storm
These verses are a favorite for so many believers, and for good reason. It's a profound promise of God’s unending strength and the renewal only He can provide. It's an acknowledgment that all of us, no matter our age or stage in life, can experience weariness and exhaustion. We are human, and our abilities are limited. But God has infinite power. His promise is clear: those who hope in Him will have their strength renewed.
Now, here's a fun fact that might change how you picture this verse: while the majestic bald eagle is the national bird of the United States there's some scholarly discussion about the original Hebrew word translated as "eagle" in most Bible versions. Interestingly, it's the same word used for "vultures," another bird of prey. The griffon vulture, native to Israel, is known for its impressive long wingspan and remarkable soaring capabilities. So, it's quite probable that Isaiah was actually referencing this vulture.
The Calmness of Soaring
"Soaring on wings like vultures" might not have the same poetic ring to it as soaring on eagle’s wings, and let's be honest, we probably don't like to think of ourselves as vultures! But the scripture isn't focused on the bird's appearance or its diet. Instead, the Bible is highlighting its incredible ability to soar smoothly and calmly into the air. Both eagles and vultures are masters of using turbulent winds to their advantage, lifting higher above storms rather than being battered by them.
And that's where the true beauty of this scripture lies for us. When we place our hope and trust in God, we can rise above life’s challenges and difficulties in much the same way. Instead of being overwhelmed and knocked down by the storms of life, we can find His strength and endurance to keep going. He enables us to use the very things that threaten to overwhelm us to lift us higher.
Lord Jesus, teach us not to lean on our own limited strength but to place our hope entirely in You, knowing that You will lift us up when we are weak. In times of weariness, help us trust deeply in Your infinite power. In You, we can indeed soar on wings like eagles.
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