We enjoyed our worship and then shared in communion.
The message was from Isaiah 40:26-31, titled Renewal for the Weary.
The nation of Israel has been split in two. Although David had been promised that if he obeyed God there would always be a descendant on the thrown. His son Solomon became king after David. Although he was given wisdom over all others, Solomon allowed his many wives to lead him astray and the nation became spiritually bankrupt resulting in occupation by Assyria.
The people are questioning ‘Where are you, God?’ This passage in Isaiah reminds us that when everything looks hopeless, God is still in charge. Look up. Get your eyes off your issues and get your eyes on Him. There were those accusing Nehemiah of wrong motives, but he looked to God. Nehemiah 4:14.
It is important for us to stay grounded in the Word which builds our faith and focus.
“17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Romans 10:17 NASB.
When we are weary, it helps to remember what God has done for His people… and us. It is better than multi-level marketing. God says He is there for us, and He is the antidote. He is not worn down by this world.
We are told that God cares for the sparrow but He cares even more for us.
“29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” Matthew 10:29 NIV.
If we rely on God as we struggle through trials, we receive the crown of life. James 1:12.
We believe that every good and perfect gift comes from God. James 1:17.
When people are worn down they are susceptible to allowing lust to enter. We can recall that
God's mercies are new every morning. Some of us are workaholics, and we feel our plate is overloaded. We need to step back and put out hope and trust in Him.
Isaiah 55:2 tells us to ‘listen so our soul can live’: “Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.
Our scripture today says “wait upon the Lord.” Verse 31. This is more than just waiting. It is waiting with expectation. Faith is involved. Believe that God is going to show up.
Activate hope, remember what is good - His blessings - and wait with expectation.
He is the God of provision.
Recount, even to yourself, the deeds of the Lord.
Paul tells us: “Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.” 1 Timothy 4:13 NLT
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When you wait, or anticipate God, you will not just get by, but your strength shall be renewed.
When you are struggling through circumstances that seem wrong in your life, don't forget to celebrate what is going right.
I had a couple of song choices and decided on this one for this message:
Look Up Child.
Isaiah 40:31 New King James Version
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.
Thank you, Lord, that I can wait on You in expectation, knowing You have all things in control.
